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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.
Will Thailand’s Move Forward Party Give Up on Lese-Majeste Reform?
By David Hutt
Even if it puts off amending the royal defamation law for now, change is probably inevitable given shifts in public attitudes toward the monarchy.
Thailand’s Election: The Start of a New Chapter or Prelude to More Turmoil?
By Michio Ueda
How the change in voting tendencies among Bangkokians may indicate a national political shift.
For Victims of Cyclone Mocha, the Crisis Isn’t Over
By Nazifa Nawar
While Bangladesh was spared the worst, Myanmar’s civil conflict is making it difficult for aid to reach those in need.
UN Special Envoy to Myanmar to Step Down This Month
By Sebastian Strangio
Since late 2021, Noeleen Heyzer has had the unenviable task of trying to mediate a conflict in a context of extreme polarization and mutual hostility.
Malaysia Expels Prominent Cambodian Opposition Figure Sam Rainsy
By Sebastian Strangio
Prime Minister Hun Sen claims that he received a promise from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that Rainsy would “never be allowed to step on Malaysian soil.”
Did Malaysia’s PM Just Say the Quiet Part Out Loud on Myanmar?
By Sribala Subramanian
A look back at the origins of ASEAN's "embarrassing problem."
Anti-Chinese Protests Are on the Rise in Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
China's engagement with the hated military administration has pushed its reputation in Myanmar to new lows.
Alleged 1MDB Mastermind Jho Low is Hiding in Macau, Malaysian Government Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The confirmation, which follows the return of another 1MDB suspect from Macau, is unlikely to result in the fugitive financier's extradition.
Cambodia’s Hun Sen is Fearful of What Will Happen after July’s General Election
By David Hutt
The Cambodian leader will not release his grip until the planned leadership transition to his son Hun Manet has been fully completed.
Myanmar Junta Sentenced Journalist to 10 Years in Prison
By Sebastian Strangio
Hmue Yadanar Khet Moh Moh Tun of the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency was charged with abetting terrorism by donating money to anti-junta resistance groups.
Malaysia Detains Chinese Ship on Suspicion of Looting British WWII Wrecks
By Sebastian Strangio
The Fuzhou-registered vessel was found to be carrying an artillery shell and scrap metal believed to be at least 80 years old.
Hun Sen Is Keeping Kem Sokha Hostage. Will the West Respond to His Threats?
By David Hutt
The Cambodian leader is using his rival as a bargaining chip in anticipation of his clean sweep at July's national election.