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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.
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
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
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.
Malaysia Announces Plans To Decriminalize Minor Drug Offenses
By Sebastian Strangio
The proposal is the latest in a series of criminal justice reforms being pursued by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's government.
Thailand’s Military Lost the Election, but Will Obstruct the New Government At Every Turn
By George McLeod
It's not a question of whether the establishment will play spoiler, but of when and how.
Vietnam’s Climate Fashion
By Sribala Subramanian
Motorists are coping with the current extreme heat like it's an Arctic winter.
Cambodia’s Main Opposition Party Barred From July Election
By Sebastian Strangio
The National Election Committee has refused to accept the Candlelight Party's election registration, opening the way to another clean sweep by PM Hun Sen's CPP.
Thailand’s Move Forward Party Celebrates Election Win, Begins Coalition Talks
By Sebastian Strangio
MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat says that the party plans to form a coalition government with five other parties.
Powerful Cyclone Floods Homes, Cuts Communications in Western Myanmar
By Julhas Alam
At least six are dead and more than 700 injured after Cyclone Mocha slammed into Myanmar’s coast.
ASEAN Continues to Move Slowly on the Myanmar Crisis
By Sebastian Strangio
The statement issued at the close of last week's summit was less forthright than those produced under the aegis of last year's chair, Cambodia.
Piracy and Armed Robbery in Southeast Asia: The Need for a Fresh Approach
By Prakash Panneerselvam and K.G. Ramkumar
The region needs to address the growing incidence of piracy and armed robbery before it becomes a serious security concern.
Philippines Undertakes Major Review of School Curriculum
By Mong Palatino
The Marcos administration wants to make major changes to an education system that is still recovering from the closures of the COVID-19 pandemic.