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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.
Philippines’ Duterte to Skip Upcoming US-ASEAN Summit
By Sebastian Strangio
The May 12-13 summit will take place just days after millions of Filipinos go to the polls to elect Duterte's successor.
Thai Foreign Ministry Appoints Special Envoy for Myanmar Issues
By Sebastian Strangio
The appointment of Pornpimol Kanchanalak will relieve pressure on the Foreign Ministry, but there is no indication it marks a shift in the country's approach to the Myanmar crisis.
Myanmar Court Sentences Suu Kyi to 5 Years for Corruption
By Grant Peck
The sentence is designed to legitimize the military's seizure of power while keeping the 76-year-old elected leader from returning to an active role in politics.
Singapore Executes Malaysian Man in High-Profile Death Row Case
By Sebastian Strangio
A Singaporean court rejected a raft of appeals claiming that Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam had an intellectual disability and was coerced into carrying drugs.
Malaysian FM Admits Contacts With Myanmar Opposition Shadow Government
By Sebastian Strangio
Saifuddin Abdullah's announcement marked the first time that an ASEAN government has admitted to contacts with the opposition National Unity Government.
Indonesia’s Mosque Loudspeakers Continue to Spark Controversy
By A’an Suryana
Indonesian government attempts to regulate the azan, or Islamic call to prayer, continue to inflame religious sentiments.
Indonesia Bans Exports of Palm Oil Amid Domestic Price Rises
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban, which comes into effect on Wednesday, will add further upward pressure to the global price of cooking oil.
Ethnic Armed Organizations Reject Myanmar Junta Peace Talk Bid
By Sebastian Strangio
Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's promise of fresh negotiations is a transparent attempt to split the anti-coup resistance.
Why Did Duterte Veto the Philippine SIM Card Registration Act?
By Mong Palatino
The bill was criticized by civil liberties groups and citizens. But President Rodrigo Duterte is hardly known for his emphasis on freedoms.
There’s a Crisis Unfolding in Southeastern Myanmar
By Nai Aue Mon and Maggi Quadrini
Heavy attacks by Myanmar’s military are threatening civilian safety and security. The world must not look away.
Hundreds in Jakarta Protest Talk of 2024 Election Delay
By Fadlan Syam and Niniek Karmini
Rumors that President Joko Widodo is seeking to extend his time in office continue to spark protests, alongside inflation and controversial legislation.
How the Coup Shattered the Image of Myanmar’s Military
By Tun Myint
The Tatmadaw has slid from a repressive to a repugnant institution in public opinion.