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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 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.
Marcos Jr. Receives Electoral Endorsement From President Duterte’s Party
By Sebastian Strangio
The declaration by the president's faction of PDP-Laban will add further wind to the frontrunner's sails ahead of the May 9 election.
ASEAN Special Envoy Sees Minor Progress in Myanmar Mission
By Sopheng Cheang
During his visit, Prak Sokhonn met with senior junta leaders, ASEAN diplomats, and U.N. officials, as well as a prominent pro-democracy activist.
Observations From the First Round of Timor-Leste’s Presidential Election
By Li-Li Chen
The election is set for a second-round run off on April 19. But what did we learn from the first round of voting?