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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.

Thai Court Charges Eight Over 2004 Massacre in Southern Thailand

Thai Court Charges Eight Over 2004 Massacre in Southern Thailand

By Sebastian Strangio
A second case has been opened in relation to the Tak Bai massacre, in which 85 Malay Muslims were killed by Thai security forces.

Malaysia Charges Businessmen in Cult-Linked Child Sex Abuse Scandal

Malaysia Charges Businessmen in Cult-Linked Child Sex Abuse Scandal

By Sebastian Strangio
Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings is accused of running a network of care homes where children were systematically abused.
Why Rakhine State Could Become Myanmar’s First Truly Autonomous Region

Why Rakhine State Could Become Myanmar’s First Truly Autonomous Region

By Mung Sian Kim
Relatively free from foreign influence, the Arakan Army is poised to carve out a large autonomous statelet in western Myanmar.

Indonesian President’s Son Defends Private Jet Use to Anti-Corruption Agency

Indonesian President’s Son Defends Private Jet Use to Anti-Corruption Agency

By Sebastian Strangio
Kaesang Pangarep's luxurious trip to the United States has highlighted the privileges enjoyed by the country's political elite.

Death Toll From Typhoon Yagi Rises in Inundated Myanmar

Death Toll From Typhoon Yagi Rises in Inundated Myanmar

By Sebastian Strangio
The disaster has increased scrutiny on international organizations' decision to engage with the military State Administration Council.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

Duterte Could Face Charges Over Fugitive Preacher, Philippine Lawmaker Says

Duterte Could Face Charges Over Fugitive Preacher, Philippine Lawmaker Says

By Sebastian Strangio
Rodrigo Duterte reportedly bragged that he knew of the whereabouts of Apollo Quiboloy before his arrest on September 8.

Cambodia Frees Jailed Unionist Who Led NagaWorld Casino Strikes

Cambodia Frees Jailed Unionist Who Led NagaWorld Casino Strikes

By Sebastian Strangio
Chhim Sithar has vowed to continue fighting to improve wages and working conditions at the Phnom Penh entertainment complex.
Philippines to Maintain Constant Presence at Sabina Shoal, Coast Guard Says

Philippines to Maintain Constant Presence at Sabina Shoal, Coast Guard Says

By Sebastian Strangio
The withdrawal of the PCG's flagship has prompted some to claim that Beijing has forced Manila to back down at Sabina Shoal.

Indonesia, Vietnam Agree to Move Toward Diplomatic Upgrade

Indonesia, Vietnam Agree to Move Toward Diplomatic Upgrade

By Sebastian Strangio
Indonesia would become the eighth nation, and the first in ASEAN, to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with Hanoi.

A Novel Solution to Southeast Asia’s Coming Demographic Crisis

A Novel Solution to Southeast Asia’s Coming Demographic Crisis

By David Hutt
The region's governments need to start thinking more creatively about how to address their aging populations.

Saffron Washing: The Myanmar Military’s Exploitation of Buddhism 

Saffron Washing: The Myanmar Military’s Exploitation of Buddhism 

By Showe Showe
Holding itself up as the sole defender of Burmese heritage, the military has long manipulated Buddhism for its political purposes.
Philippine Vice President Threatened With Impeachment Over Fund Misuse

Philippine Vice President Threatened With Impeachment Over Fund Misuse

By Mong Palatino
Sara Duterte’s refusal to answer queries from legislators over her office’s budget has some raising the prospect of an impeachment vote. 

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