Blog
ASEAN Beat
‘One Vision, One Identity, One Community.’ That’s the ASEAN motto. But what’s the reality? Our bloggers based around this diverse and strategically key region give you an insider’s perspective on politics, security and society in South-east Asia.
Can Thailand Replicate South Korean Soft Power?
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
South Korea’s soft power is permeating youth culture. Can Thailand follow its example?
The Somad Affair and Singapore’s Battle Against Religious Extremism
By Bilveer Singh
The city-state's recent deportation of Abdul Somad Batubara, a radical Indonesian Muslim preacher, demonstrates its intolerance for any kind of extremism.
Indonesian Governor in Papua Casts Doubt on Plan for New Provinces: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The plan to break Papua and West Papua into five provinces has spurred widespread protests in the eastern region.
1B Meth Pills: East, Southeast Asia Drug Industry Hits Ominous Peak
By Grant Peck
The U.N. drug agency claims that last year's seizures of methamphetamine were seven times higher than the amount seized 10 years ago.
Vietnam’s Growing Strategic Partnerships with European Countries
By Hai Hong Nguyen
European partnerships form an increasingly important part of Vietnam's omnidirectional foreign policy.
China, Russia Again Veto UN Statement on Myanmar Conflict
By Sebastian Strangio
The U.K.-drafted statement expressed its concern about the country's growing humanitarian crisis and the "limited progress" on an ASEAN peace plan.
Myanmar Central Bank Orders Government Agencies to Stop Using Foreign Currencies
By Sebastian Strangio
The move is designed to strengthen further the junta's control of foreign currency flows, amid Myanmar's full-spectrum economic crisis.
In the Philippines, Civil Society Grows Amid Democratic Backsliding
By Ronald Castillo
The vibrant and volunteer election campaign of Vice President Leni Robredo offered some glimmers of hope for the country's democracy.
Philippines’ Marcos Pledges to Uphold Landmark South China Sea Ruling
By Sebastian Strangio
The promise came following campaign trail comments advocating a bilateral deal with Beijing over outstanding maritime and territorial disputes.
Thai Mekong Campaigner Awarded Prominent Environmental Prize
By Sebastian Strangio
The efforts of Niwat Roykaew, known commonly as “Khru Ti,” were instrumental in halting a China-led channel deepening project.
Malaysia’s Domestic Political Turbulence Threatens to Derail its Foreign Policy
By Fikry A. Rahman
Foreign policy begins at home, and the country has experienced nearly unprecedented political instability over the past two years.
Philippines Congress Officially Proclaims Marcos the Country’s Next President
By Sebastian Strangio
The proclamation finalizes the return of the divisive Marcos clan to the heights of Philippine politics.