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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.
Challenges Ahead for Indonesia’s Interfaith Couples
By Hartini
An Indonesian Supreme Court decision in 2023 made it harder for interfaith couples to have their marriages recognized.
Biden to Warn China on South China Sea, Report Claims
By Sebastian Strangio
The U.S. president is set to deliver the warning at this week's trilateral summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines.
Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim Faces the Demons He Helped Unleash
By Imran Said
After coming to office with a pledge to focus on the economy, Anwar has been dogged by Malay-Muslim culture war controversies.
Myanmar Rebels on Verge of Seizing Key Border Town, Group Claims
By Sebastian Strangio
If confirmed, the surrender of the military garrison in Myawaddy on the Thai border would mark another serious defeat for the junta.
Southeast Asians Don’t Really Care About the Myanmar Crisis
By David Hutt
A recent survey of regional elite opinion shows a surprising lack of regional concern about the country's ongoing conflict.
Myanmar’s Intensifying Conflict Taking Massive Rights Toll: UN
By Edith M. Lederer
According to the global body, 18.6 million people in Myanmar will need humanitarian assistance in 2024 – a nineteen-fold increase since the 2021 coup.
Former Malaysian PM Seeks to Serve Remaining Prison Term Under House Arrest
By Sebastian Strangio
Najib Razak claims that the authorities have concealed the existence of a royal order permitting him to serve his remaining sentence at home.
Ex-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’ with China Under Scrutiny
By Mong Palatino
Did the former president broker an informal deal with the Chinese government over the South China Sea?
Myanmar Resistance Forces Launch Drone Attack on Capital
By Sebastian Strangio
The daring kamikaze drone attack did not cause much damage, but its political significance cannot be underestimated.
How Will the Prabowo Administration Approach Indonesian Energy Policy?
By Aldwin Yusgiantoro
The new administration will take office at a crucial point in the country's energy transition.
Thai Police to Investigate Deputy Chief Accused of Links to Online Gambling
By Sebastian Strangio
Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn has been accused of money laundering in connection with an illegal online gambling operation.
From Cribs to Cabinets: The Apparent Surge of ‘Nepo Babies’ in Thai Politics
By Tita Sanglee
The country has long been governed by a galaxy of interconnected political clans.