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.
Rohingya Militant Group Targeting Malaysia-Based Refugees with Online Campaign
By Jasminder Singh and J. Fernando
There is mounting evidence that the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army is targeting the Rohingyas in Malaysia with radicalizing propaganda.
Myanmar’s Garment Workers Are Caught Between COVID-19 and the Coup
By Meghan Sullivan
After rapid growth in the garment sector during the country's period of opening, workers face a host of political and economic challenges.
Indonesian Parliament Passes Long-Awaited Sexual Violence Bill
By Sebastian Strangio
The passage of the law, which had languished in the legislature since 2016, follows a series of high-profile rape cases that have stoked public anger.
In Indonesia, Protesters March Against Mooted Delay to 2024 Election
By Sebastian Strangio
The protests proceeded despite President Joko Widodo's assurance that he has no intention to remain in office beyond the constitution's two-term limit.
The Challenges Facing Indonesia’s G20 Presidency
By Noto Suoneto and Hugh Harsono
The war in Ukraine is only one of the obstacles facing President Joko Widodo's administration.
Thai Opposition Figure Charged With Royal Defamation, Cyber Crimes
By Sebastian Strangio
The head of the disbanded Future Forward Party criticized the government for contracting a royal-owned firm to supply COVID-19 vaccines.
Revisiting the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor After the Coup
By Amara Thiha
The military coup of February 2021 has opened up new avenues of collaboration between Myanmar and China.
Duterte, Xi Talk South China Sea in Virtual Summit
By Sebastian Strangio
The call forms a neat bookend to Duterte's six years of controversial rapprochement with China.
Cambodia Rescues 16 Trafficked Malaysians, Others Still Held Captive
By Luke Hunt
The move came after the Malaysian ambassador wrote to the national police chief to ask for assistance.
Indonesia’s Jokowi Denies Plan to Extend His Term Beyond 2024
By Sebastian Strangio
In recent months, senior politicians have made controversial proposals to extend the Indonesian leader's tenure.
Beyond Infrastructure: Chinese Capital in the Philippines Under Duterte
By Alvin Camba and Rongchen Jiang
While few large Chinese infrastructure projects have eventuated under the current administration, the country has been awash in Chinese money.
Japan, Philippines Agree to Boost Security Cooperation
By Sebastian Strangio
Shared concerns about China's maritime assertiveness have driven a steady strategic convergence between Tokyo and Manila.