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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.

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Cambodia’s Hun Sen Accuses Western Diplomats of Supporting Opposition

Cambodia’s Hun Sen Accuses Western Diplomats of Supporting Opposition

By Sebastian Strangio
Since the 1990s, accusations of foreign interference have occupied a privileged position in the Cambodian leader's rhetorical arsenal.
Thai Opposition Coalition Unveils 23-Point Policy Platform

Thai Opposition Coalition Unveils 23-Point Policy Platform

By Sebastian Strangio
The pact enshrines many of the Move Forward Party's most ambitious reforms, but does not include its plans to amend the lese-majeste law.

Massacre in Myanmar’s Kalay Jail

Massacre in Myanmar’s Kalay Jail

By Rajeev Bhattacharyya
A quarrel between prison guards and inmates culminated in a massacre that killed nine inmates, an eyewitness told The Diplomat.

Philippine Vice President Resigns From Ruling Party Over ‘Political Toxicity’

Philippine Vice President Resigns From Ruling Party Over ‘Political Toxicity’

By Sebastian Strangio
Sara Duterte's resignation from Lakas-CMD followed the demotion of her ally, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, in the House of Representatives.

Gulf States’ Growing Aid Diplomacy in Indonesia

Gulf States’ Growing Aid Diplomacy in Indonesia

By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama
As the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia is receiving increased attention from the wealthy states of the Middle East.
Why Did Thailand’s Move Forward Party Win Big in Phuket?

Why Did Thailand’s Move Forward Party Win Big in Phuket?

By Tita Sanglee
The island, a traditional stronghold of conservative and military-aligned parties, has fallen to Pita Limjaroenrat's orange wave.

Key Thai Youth Activist Group Plans Senate Protest

Key Thai Youth Activist Group Plans Senate Protest

By Sebastian Strangio
The United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration stated that the Move Forward Party's victory "must not be ruined" by the military-appointed Senate.
Arakan Rebel Government Takes Lead in Myanmar Cyclone Recovery

Arakan Rebel Government Takes Lead in Myanmar Cyclone Recovery

By Kyaw Hsan Hlaing
The efforts of the United League of Arakan to aid the survivors of Cyclone Mocha will further entrench its influence and control in Rakhine State.

Vietnam Criticizes China, Philippines For South China Sea Activities

Vietnam Criticizes China, Philippines For South China Sea Activities

By Sebastian Strangio
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson accused the two nations of "violating the sovereign rights and jurisdictions of Vietnam" in separate recent incidents.

Thailand’s Move Forward Party Confident of Forming Government, Leader Says

Thailand’s Move Forward Party Confident of Forming Government, Leader Says

By Sebastian Strangio
Eight parties have now agreed to join the MFP-led coalition, leader Pita Limjaroenrat said, while outreach to other parties is ongoing.

Indonesian Communication Minister Arrested For Corruption

Indonesian Communication Minister Arrested For Corruption

By Sebastian Strangio
Johnny G. Plate has been accused of involvement in a telecoms procurement scheme that investigators say cost the state more than $500 million.
Former Thai PM Thaksin Hails Move Forward Election Victory

Former Thai PM Thaksin Hails Move Forward Election Victory

By Sebastian Strangio
The self-exiled leader has praised the progressive party's dynamic campaign, but could still end up exercising a strong influence over Thailand's next government.

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