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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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Indonesia to Send General on Special Mission to Myanmar, Jokowi Says

Indonesia to Send General on Special Mission to Myanmar, Jokowi Says

By Sebastian Strangio
In an interview this week, President Joko Widodo suggested that the unnamed general would highlight his own country's democratic transition since 1998.
Myanmar Military Extends State of Emergency For Third Time

Myanmar Military Extends State of Emergency For Third Time

By Sebastian Strangio
The six-month extension is likely to delay the "elections" that the coup government was planning to hold by August.

Austin in Philippines to Discuss Larger US Military Presence

Austin in Philippines to Discuss Larger US Military Presence

By Jim Gomez
The U.S. defense chief is the latest senior official to visit the Philippines in a sign of warming ties after a strained period under Marcos's predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

Western Governments Announce New Myanmar Sanctions Ahead of Coup Anniversary

Western Governments Announce New Myanmar Sanctions Ahead of Coup Anniversary

By Sebastian Strangio
The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have targeted a range of military officials and enterprises that support the armed forces.

What Indonesia Can Learn From Cambodia Regarding the Myanmar Crisis

What Indonesia Can Learn From Cambodia Regarding the Myanmar Crisis

By Phanit Vun and Sokvy Rim
A resolution to the conflict is unlikely in 2023. Jakarta should therefore take a realistic and flexible approach.
Cambodia’s Turn to Raise Eyebrows Over Infrastructure Projects

Cambodia’s Turn to Raise Eyebrows Over Infrastructure Projects

By Luke Hunt
Up to $30 billion in financing is potentially on the table – most of it from China.

US to Secure Access to New Philippine Military Facilities: Report

US to Secure Access to New Philippine Military Facilities: Report

By Sebastian Strangio
The move, which is expected to be announced this week, is the latest sign of the rapid advancement in bilateral relations under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Myanmar Junta Invited to ASEAN Meeting on Maritime Security

Myanmar Junta Invited to ASEAN Meeting on Maritime Security

By Sebastian Strangio
Next month's ADMM-Plus meeting on maritime security will be co-chaired by Thailand and the United States.

There Is No Such Thing as ASEAN Neutrality

There Is No Such Thing as ASEAN Neutrality

By David Hutt
Despite its claims to the contrary, the Southeast Asian bloc is intervening in Myanmar's crisis – just not effectively.

Indonesia’s Vicious Cycle: Terrorist Convicts Making a Comeback?

Indonesia’s Vicious Cycle: Terrorist Convicts Making a Comeback?

By Andi Raihanah Ashar
Despite the government's deradicalization programs, a small but alarming number of terrorist convicts has reoffended after their release from prison.

Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim Makes State Visit to Singapore

Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim Makes State Visit to Singapore

By Sebastian Strangio
The one-day visit comes amid a period of stagnation in relations between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Marcos and the Philippines at Davos

Marcos and the Philippines at Davos

By Mong Palatino
Since taking office in July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has undertaken eight trips abroad, with a ninth to come next month.

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