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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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