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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.

The Unresolved Legacy of the May 1998 Riots in Indonesia
May 27, 2023

The Unresolved Legacy of the May 1998 Riots in Indonesia

By Virdika Rizky Utama
Next year's presidential election is a good time to press for accountability for the violence that accompanied the end of Suharto's New Order.

A Watch Seizure and a Criminal Code Designed to Clamp Down on LGBTQ Rights
May 27, 2023

A Watch Seizure and a Criminal Code Designed to Clamp Down on LGBTQ Rights

By Aisyah Llewellyn
Malaysia's government is openly intolerant of gender and sexual minorities. Despite appearances, things aren't much better across the pond in Indonesia.
Scenes From Timor-Leste’s Parliamentary Election
May 26, 2023

Scenes From Timor-Leste’s Parliamentary Election

By Sacha Shaw
A parliamentary election and the climax of a month of independence celebrations came and went last weekend in Asia's youngest nation.

Cambodia’s Largest Opposition Party Officially Ruled out of July Election
May 26, 2023

Cambodia’s Largest Opposition Party Officially Ruled out of July Election

By Sebastian Strangio
The Candlelight Party has been barred for failing to submit the original 1998 party registration document.

Vietnam Noodle Vendor Jailed For Mocking Security Minister
May 26, 2023

Vietnam Noodle Vendor Jailed For Mocking Security Minister

By Sebastian Strangio
Bui Tuan Lam was arrested last September after creating a video parodying the public security minister's consumption of a gold-encrusted steak.

ASEAN and Canada Must Seek Common Ground to Finalize Free Trade Agreement
May 25, 2023

ASEAN and Canada Must Seek Common Ground to Finalize Free Trade Agreement

By Suryo Nugroho
Southeast Asia is a priority region of Canada’s bid to diversify its economic interest, but progress will have to clear steep hurdles.

How Thailand’s Myanmar Policy Could Change Under Move Forward
May 24, 2023

How Thailand’s Myanmar Policy Could Change Under Move Forward

By Sebastian Strangio
Assuming he is able to form government, Pita Limjaroenrat has promised significant changes to the Thai government's approach toward its conflict-torn neighbor.
What’s Behind the Growing Number of Attacks in Southern Thailand?
May 24, 2023

What’s Behind the Growing Number of Attacks in Southern Thailand?

By Rahul Mishra
Whoever ends up leading the country's next government, they need to prioritize the implementation of the 2013 peace plan.

Malaysian Authorities Seize ‘Pride’ Watches in Raids on Swatch Outlets
May 24, 2023

Malaysian Authorities Seize ‘Pride’ Watches in Raids on Swatch Outlets

By Sebastian Strangio
The May 13-14 raids stem from the religious right's growing attack on LGBTQ symbols and expression.

Cambodia’s Hun Sen Tells Countries to Stay Silent on Election Process
May 24, 2023

Cambodia’s Hun Sen Tells Countries to Stay Silent on Election Process

By Luke Hunt
More revolutionary plots are alleged ahead of the July 23 poll.

Timor-Leste’s Opposition Party Wins Most Seats in Parliamentary Election
May 24, 2023

Timor-Leste’s Opposition Party Wins Most Seats in Parliamentary Election

By Gantry Meilana
The CNRT won 31 out of 65 seats in the National Parliament, putting leader Xanana Gusmao in strong position to form a governing coalition.
Thailand’s Desire For Change Runs Deeper Than the Election Results
May 23, 2023

Thailand’s Desire For Change Runs Deeper Than the Election Results

By Jittip Mongkolnchaiarunya
The outcome of the polls on May 14 was built on years of painstaking efforts by the country's civil society organizations.

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