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.
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.
How the Russia-Ukraine War Will Impact Philippines-Russia Relations
By Joshua Espeña
Despite steady improvements in defense ties, there isn't much at stake in the two countries' bilateral relations.
Singapore Announces Significant Relaxation of COVID-19 Protocols
By Sebastian Strangio
The city-state has finally done away with its strict outdoor mask mandate, as it takes a decisive step toward "living with" the virus.
Indonesia Prepping Strict New Rules for Online Platforms: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The new rules would require digital platforms to respond to "urgent" requests for the removal of content within four hours.
Islam, Muslims, and the Secular State in Singapore
By Mohamed Bin Ali
The city-state offers a good example of how Islam can flourish in the context of a secular state.