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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.
Malaysian FM Admits Contacts With Myanmar Opposition Shadow Government
By Sebastian Strangio
Saifuddin Abdullah's announcement marked the first time that an ASEAN government has admitted to contacts with the opposition National Unity Government.
Indonesia’s Mosque Loudspeakers Continue to Spark Controversy
By A’an Suryana
Indonesian government attempts to regulate the azan, or Islamic call to prayer, continue to inflame religious sentiments.
Indonesia Bans Exports of Palm Oil Amid Domestic Price Rises
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban, which comes into effect on Wednesday, will add further upward pressure to the global price of cooking oil.
Ethnic Armed Organizations Reject Myanmar Junta Peace Talk Bid
By Sebastian Strangio
Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's promise of fresh negotiations is a transparent attempt to split the anti-coup resistance.
Why Did Duterte Veto the Philippine SIM Card Registration Act?
By Mong Palatino
The bill was criticized by civil liberties groups and citizens. But President Rodrigo Duterte is hardly known for his emphasis on freedoms.
There’s a Crisis Unfolding in Southeastern Myanmar
By Nai Aue Mon and Maggi Quadrini
Heavy attacks by Myanmar’s military are threatening civilian safety and security. The world must not look away.
Hundreds in Jakarta Protest Talk of 2024 Election Delay
By Fadlan Syam and Niniek Karmini
Rumors that President Joko Widodo is seeking to extend his time in office continue to spark protests, alongside inflation and controversial legislation.
How the Coup Shattered the Image of Myanmar’s Military
By Tun Myint
The Tatmadaw has slid from a repressive to a repugnant institution in public opinion.
Thailand’s New Deep South Airport: Dead on Arrival?
By Tita Sanglee
A new airport in Betong is supposed to spark development in Thailand's troubled south, but practical considerations limit its potential.
Old Challenges Loom Over Southern Thailand’s New Peace Talks
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Building on the recent successes of fresh negotiations will depend on both sides overcoming decades-old difficulties.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines Consider Expanding Sulu Sea Trilateral Patrols
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Ongoing efforts to further develop the minilateral mechanism bear close watching, despite lingering challenges.
Timor-Leste Chooses President in Runoff Amid Political Feud
By Associated Press
Preliminary results for in the race between two former independence fighters, and bitter rivals, may not be known until Wednesday.