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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.

In Recent Border Controversies, Thailand’s Government Has Been Missing in Action

In Recent Border Controversies, Thailand’s Government Has Been Missing in Action

By William J. Jones
The failure of the Pheu Thai-led government to communicate with the public uniformly and effectively has created openings for its opponents.

Thai Government Approves Measures to Reduce Household Debt

Thai Government Approves Measures to Reduce Household Debt

By Sebastian Strangio
The country's household debt-to-GDP ratio is among the highest in Asia, which has acted as brake on its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Did Filipino-Americans Help Trump Win Nevada?

Did Filipino-Americans Help Trump Win Nevada?

By Sribala Subramanian
Swing voters in a battleground state may have leaned right.

Philippines Will Not Deploy Navy in Stand-offs With China, Marcos Says

Philippines Will Not Deploy Navy in Stand-offs With China, Marcos Says

By Sebastian Strangio
On December 4, Chinese ships, including a navy vessel, confronted Philippine vessels close to a disputed shoal in the South China Sea.

Ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir Denies Betraying Country Over Island Dispute

Ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir Denies Betraying Country Over Island Dispute

By Sebastian Strangio
A royal commission of inquiry has recommended that the former leader face “criminal investigations” for dropping claims to two islets in a dispute with Singapore.

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

Cambodian Journalist Killed While Covering Illegal Logging

Cambodian Journalist Killed While Covering Illegal Logging

By Luke Hunt
Authorities question Chhoeung Chheung’s credentials amid outcry.

Laos Bestows National Development Award on Sanctioned Chinese ‘Crime Boss’

Laos Bestows National Development Award on Sanctioned Chinese ‘Crime Boss’

By Sebastian Strangio
Zhao Wei is the head of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo province, a known haven of cyber-scam operations.
Ethnic Armed Group Claims Full Control of Myanmar’s Border With Bangladesh

Ethnic Armed Group Claims Full Control of Myanmar’s Border With Bangladesh

By Sebastian Strangio
The Arakan Army says that it has captured the last remaining junta base in Maungdaw Township, after six months of fighting.

Cyberscamming is Southeast Asia’s Incurable Disease

Cyberscamming is Southeast Asia’s Incurable Disease

By David Hutt
The region has experienced its share of criminality, but the recent explosion of online scam operations is both quantitatively and qualitatively different.

Coup Plot Dismissed in the Philippines

Coup Plot Dismissed in the Philippines

By Mong Palatino
Amid an escalating political feud, former President Rodrigo Duterte has called for military action against his successor's administration.

Indonesia, Philippines Agree to Repatriation of Filipina Drug Convict

Indonesia, Philippines Agree to Repatriation of Filipina Drug Convict

By Sebastian Strangio
Mary Jane Veloso, 39, has been on death row in Indonesia since her arrest for heroin trafficking in 2010.
Thailand to Host ASEAN Talks on Myanmar Conflict This Month

Thailand to Host ASEAN Talks on Myanmar Conflict This Month

By Sebastian Strangio
The December 20 meeting in Bangkok will seek a way through the thicket of Myanmar's intertwined conflicts.

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