Blog
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.
China’s ‘Zero-COVID’ Policy: An Economic Nightmare for Thailand
By Tita Sanglee
Try as it might, the Thai government has been unable to fill the gaping hole left by millions of absent Chinese tourists.
Malaysia Election Set for November 19 Amid Fear of Floods
By Associated Press
The chairman of the country's Election Commission said that a two-week campaign period will begin on November 5.
Malaysian Authorities Deported Asylum Seekers to Myanmar: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The reported deportations seem to contradict Kuala Lumpur's active approach to resolving the crisis in Myanmar.
Cambodian Court Sentences Opposition Leader to Life Imprisonment
By Sebastian Strangio
Sam Rainsy is accused of plotting to cede four Cambodian provinces to the country's indigenous peoples.
Philippines Shuts 214 Illegal Chinese Gambling Operations
By Associated Press
A spate of crimes victimizing Chinese workers at illegal online gambling businesses sparked the crackdown, which Beijing supports.
Report Details Declining Internet Freedoms in Southeast Asia
By Sebastian Strangio
None of the eight Southeast Asian nations monitored by the U.S.-funded organization Freedom House had an online sphere classified as "free."
Indonesia’s Jokowi Pledges to Improve Stadium Safety After Stampede
By Sebastian Strangio
The world soccer governing body has pledged to help Jakarta improve safety and infrastructure in the run-up to next year's Under-20 FIFA World Cup.
Singapore’s Lee and Australia’s Albanese Meet, Sign Green Economy Agreement
By Sebastian Strangio
Lee Hsien Loong's state visit was a reminder that Singapore has long been, and is likely to remain, Canberra's most "like-minded" partner in Southeast Asia.
Malaysia’s 2023 Budget and the Upcoming General Election
By James Guild
Government spending remains high compared to historical levels, but is coming down from the heights of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vietnam’s UN Abstention Casts Doubt on Its Commitment to Principle
By Huynh Tam Sang
By refraining from condemning Russia’s attempts to annex four regions of Ukraine, the country signaled its continued prioritization of national interests over moral principles.
Drug Arrest of Minister’s Son a Test of Philippine Judicial Independence
By Sebastian Strangio
Juanito Jose Remulla III was arrested last week for the possession of a large quantity of high-grade marijuana.
The First 100 Days of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte
By Mong Palatino
Is the daughter of the former president gearing up for her own presidential run in 2028?