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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.
Peng Jiasheng, Myanmar’s ‘King of Kokang,’ Remembered With Lavish Funeral
By Sebastian Strangio
Upon his death in February, the former communist and drug trafficker received a flood of condolences from Myanmar, China, and beyond.
Singapore Executes Convicted Drug Trafficker After Two Year COVID-19 Hiatus
By Sebastian Strangio
The hanging of Abdul Kahar Othman has raised activists' concerns of an impending “surge in execution notices.”
Golden Triangle Gambling Zone the World’s ‘Worst’ SEZ, Group Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The Golden Triangle SEZ has been credibly accused of involvement in human trafficking, narcotics smuggling, and the trade in endangered wildlife products.
How Is Cambodia Navigating the Impacts of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine?
By Chhengpor Aun
In the five weeks since the invasion, the country has pivoted from neutrality to condemnation of the Russian aggression.
Singapore’s PM Meets With President Biden on US Trip
By Sebastian Strangio
The two leaders pledged their commitment to a "rules-based order" that they said was under unprecedented attack.
Indonesia State Energy Firm Pertamina Mulls Purchases of Russian Oil
By Sebastian Strangio
The firm's CEO said that the firm should take advantage of the plummeting prices for Russian crude oil.
Philippines, US Kick Off Large-Scale Balikatan Military Exercise
By Sebastian Strangio
The exercises, billed as the largest ever, come at the tail end of President Rodrigo Duterte's turbulent term in office.
Philippines Calls Out Dangerous Chinese Actions Near Disputed Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
The Philippine Coast Guard claims that Chinese vessels have maneuvered dangerously close to Philippine ships on four occasions over the past year.
Timor-Leste Set for Presidential Runoff Election Next Month
By Associated Press
Former President Jose Ramos-Horta will face off against current President Francisco Guterres in a second round of voting on April 19.
Blackouts and Fuel Price Surges Bite in Post-Coup Myanmar
By Seng Pan and Tsa Shee Nrang
Fourteen months on from the military takeover, many ordinary people are struggling to pay for basic necessities.
Myanmar Coup Leader Pledges to ‘Annihilate’ Those Opposing his Government
By Sebastian Strangio
Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing's comments came on the anniversary of the bloodiest crackdown on those protesting last February's coup.
US Diplomat Again Denies Consulate Missile Base Rumor
By Sebastian Strangio
Since it broke ground in 2020, the new U.S. consular complex in Chiang Mai has been the subject of widespread social media speculation.