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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 Singapore, the Hangman’s Noose is Growing Threadbare

In Singapore, the Hangman’s Noose is Growing Threadbare

By David Hutt
The government argues that capital punishment has been an effective deterrent for drug crimes. But is there any solid evidence for the claim?

Second Major Rebel Group Says It Is Ready For Talks With Myanmar Junta

Second Major Rebel Group Says It Is Ready For Talks With Myanmar Junta

By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army is a sign of China's growing efforts to shape the direction of the conflict in Shan State.
Cambodia Deportations Undermine Thailand’s UN Human Rights Council Credentials

Cambodia Deportations Undermine Thailand’s UN Human Rights Council Credentials

By David Whitehouse
Thailand is becoming increasingly inhospitable to dissidents and anti-government activists from neighboring countries.

Vietnamese Court Upholds Death Sentence For Real Estate Tycoon

Vietnamese Court Upholds Death Sentence For Real Estate Tycoon

By Sebastian Strangio
Truong My Lan, 68, may be eligible for clemency if she is able to return at least 75 percent of the misappropriated assets.

How to Improve Road Safety in Indonesia

How to Improve Road Safety in Indonesia

By Aine Kusumawati
Indonesia enacted stricter regulations after a traffic accident killed 54 people in 2003. But 20 years later, the roads are not getting any safer.

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

Indonesia Yet to Create Joint Maritime Development Areas With China, FM Says

Indonesia Yet to Create Joint Maritime Development Areas With China, FM Says

By Sebastian Strangio
Sugiono has played down the significance of a joint statement that appeared to recognize China's expansive claims in the South China Sea.

Vietnam’s National Assembly Approves High-Speed Rail Project

Vietnam’s National Assembly Approves High-Speed Rail Project

By Sebastian Strangio
The rail line, which will link the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City to the capital Hanoi, is expected to cost $67 billion.
Methanol Poisoning Is Senseless and Easily Preventable. Why Does it Keep Happening?

Methanol Poisoning Is Senseless and Easily Preventable. Why Does it Keep Happening?

By Aisyah Llewellyn
The recent deaths of six foreign tourists in Laos has cast a light on a long-standing problem in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam Sets Off Down the Path of Institutional ‘Revolution’

Vietnam Sets Off Down the Path of Institutional ‘Revolution’

By Hai Hong Nguyen
To Lam, the new chief of the Communist Party of Vietnam, has pledged to lead the country into a "new era."

From Paradise to Plastics Pollution: Bali’s Battle Against Marine Plastics Debris

From Paradise to Plastics Pollution: Bali’s Battle Against Marine Plastics Debris

By Emenda Sembiring, Attar Hikmahtiar Ramadan, and Elprida Agustina
Bali has a unique opportunity to address plastic waste by integrating sustainable practices into the tourism experience.

Philippine President Discourages Impeachment Bid Against the Vice President

Philippine President Discourages Impeachment Bid Against the Vice President

By Mong Palatino
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also described his feud with Vice President Sara Duterte and her family as a "storm in a teacup."
Myanmar Navy Fires At Thai Fishing Boats, Detains 31 Crew

Myanmar Navy Fires At Thai Fishing Boats, Detains 31 Crew

By Sebastian Strangio
Thailand continues to experience the backwash from the internal ructions in Myanmar.

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