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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.
Malaysian Court Upholds 1MDB Verdict Against Former PM
By Sebastian Strangio
In handing down the decision, an appeal judge described Najib Razak’s actions as a “national embarrassment.”
Rohingya Sue Facebook for $150 Billion, Alleging Role in Violence
By Kelvin Chan
Lawyers filed a class-action lawsuit in California saying Facebook's arrival in Myanmar helped spread hate speech, misinformation, and incitement to violence.
New ASEAN Chair Cambodia to Push Engagement With Myanmar Junta
By Sebastian Strangio
Following a meeting with the junta's foreign minister today, Prime Minister Hun Sen said he would visit Myanmar next month.
Myanmar Court Sentences Ousted Leader Aung San Suu Kyi to 4 Years
By Grant Peck
The sentences relate to just two of the more than 10 criminal charges facing the country's ousted leader.
Myanmar Army Truck Runs Down Protesters Ahead of Suu Kyi Verdict
By Sebastian Strangio
The attack was just the latest in a series of bloody attacks committed by the security forces against those protesting the military coup.
Group Notes ‘Dramatic Spike’ in Reprisals Against Opposition MPs in Southeast Asia
By Sebastian Strangio
ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights says 2021 has been a "a dark year for human rights in Southeast Asia."
Cambodia Bans US Visits to Ream Naval Base After Sanctions
By Luke Hunt
Prime Minister Hun Sen says the naval base is “not a place for thieves or robbers.”
Cambodia’s Political Succession Could Get Messy
By David Hutt
Hun Sen made it official: he is positioning his eldest son as his successor. Is the CPP ready for a generational change?
Laos-China Railway Inaugurated Amid Mounting Debt Concerns
By Sebastian Strangio
The $5.9 billion railway, an impressive feat of Chinese engineering, is set to tie Laos ever closer to its northern neighbor.
Why the Fight for the Philippines Vice Presidency Matters
By Mong Palatino
Whoever wins the number two slot could end up playing a significant political role in the next administration.
Cambodian PM Backs His Son Hun Manet to Succeed Him
By Sebastian Strangio
Prime Minister Hun Sen's announcement offered the strongest signal of support for his 44-year-old son.
China Demanded Halt to Indonesian Drilling Near Natuna Islands: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
Chinese diplomats claimed that the rig was drilling for oil and gas in "Chinese territory."