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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.
Midterm Elections and the Prospect of Impeachment in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
As registrations for next year's midterm elections begins, momentum is growing for an impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Indonesia, Malaysia Welcome Proposed Delay to EU Deforestation Regulation
By Sebastian Strangio
The two nations have lobbied against Brussels' law, which would have increased scrutiny of their palm oil exports to European countries.
Former Singaporean Transport Minister Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison
By Sebastian Strangio
S Iswaran pleaded guilty to accepting more than S$400,000 in valuable gifts from businessmen who had dealings with the government.
Why Have No Southeast Asian Leaders Won the Nobel Peace Prize?
By Ahmad Syarif
The region's Nobel laureates have all been non-state actors whose advocacy has aligned with the narratives of Western powers.
Vietnam Protests ‘Brutal’ Chinese Attack on Fishermen in Paracel Islands
By Sebastian Strangio
Beijing claims that the Vietnamese fishing boat was operating illegally in Chinese waters, and that its actions caused "no injuries."
Rights Orgs, Press Freedom Groups Call for Release of Cambodian Journalist
By Sebastian Strangio
Mech Dara, who has earned global plaudits for his work on online scam syndicates, has been charged with "incitement" over a series of social media posts.
In the Komodo Dragon’s Lair, Tourism Faces a Delicate Balancing Act
By Reiza Miftah Wirakusuma, Sarah Gardiner and Alexandra Coghlan
As visitor numbers to natural wonders around the world grow, authorities face a huge challenge balancing conservation with development.
Philippines Opens Candidate Registration Period for Mid-term Elections
By Sebastian Strangio
The May 12, 2025 polls are expected to see a proxy battle between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.
Thai Court Grants Request for Extradition of Montagnard Activist to Vietnam
By Sebastian Strangio
Y Quynh Bdap is wanted in connection with attacks on two government offices in the Central Highlands last year.
Is An End to Asia’s Longest Running Communist Insurgency Finally in Sight?
By Christian Wells
Despite a promising start to a renewed peacebuilding process in the Philippines, there are many obstacles to a lasting peace.
Historical Interpretations and Vietnam’s Diplomatic Balancing
By Khang Vu
Hanoi's interpretation of its painful history with the U.S. and China reflects its desire to maintain peaceful relations with the two powers.
Greenwashing Raises Red Flags With Indonesian Consumers
By Ridho Bramulya Ikhsan
Consumers including millennials choose carefully, increasingly aware of deceptive environmental claims by businesses.