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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.
What are the Implications of the US-ASEAN Summit for Cambodia-US Relations?
By Sokvy Rim
In recent weeks, the Cambodian government has given hints that it is open to an improvement in relations with Washington.
At Least 17 Perish as Refugee Boat Capsizes Off Myanmar Coast
By Sebastian Strangio
The tragedy is a reminder of the unresolved Rohingya refugee crisis that has been largely eclipsed by the country's post-coup conflict.
Thailand’s Democrat Party: The Gloomy Light at the End of the Tunnel
By Punchada Sirivunnabood
A mere 11 years after its last term in government, the country's oldest party finds itself in the political wilderness.
How Philippine Education Contributed to the Return of the Marcoses
By Franz Jan Santos
The inclusion of factual errors and blatant misinformation in school textbooks has provided fertile soil for the historical revisionism of the Marcos clan and its allies.
Political Dynasties Dominate Philippines Election — Again
By Mong Palatino
The return to power of the Marcos clan hints at deeper problems with the country's democracy.
Reformist Independent Scores Decisive Win in Bangkok Governor Election
By Sebastian Strangio
Chadchart Sittipunt's victory points to the deep reservoir of discontent with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's military-backed coalition government.
Timor-Leste Celebrates Independence Anniversary, New Leader
By Gantry Meilana
Former independence fighter Jose Ramos-Horta has pledged to fight poverty and bridge long-standing political divides.
Philippine Election Marred by Violence, Vote-Buying: Monitoring Mission
By Sebastian Strangio
The report's findings hint at the extent to which Philippine democracy has deteriorated under President Rodrigo Duterte.
Indonesia to Scrap Controversial Palm Oil Export Ban
By Sebastian Strangio
President Jokowi claims that the country now has enough domestic supplies of cooking oil to control runaway price rises.
Thailand’s Evolving Defense Relations With Japan
By Tita Sanglee
For years, Japan and Thailand have enjoyed close relations in all areas bar one: defense. That is beginning to change.
Indonesian Farmers Protest Falling Palm Oil Prices Amid Export Ban
By Sebastian Strangio
Intended to control soaring domestic cooking oil prices, the Indonesian government's ban has had a series of unintended consequences.
Thai Archival Find May Resolve Fate of Missing WWII US Flyer
By Jerry Harmer and Tassanee Vejpongsa
The P-38 plane is believed to have crashed after being struck by lightning in November 1944.