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.
Cambodia Must Change Course on Democracy to Avoid Myanmar’s International Isolation
By Kasit Piromya
ASEAN is testing the limits of its non-interference policy even as Cambodia takes up the ASEAN chair position.
Army Shelling in Myanmar Blamed for Setting 160 Homes Ablaze
By Grant Peck
Local Chins fear that the recent violence may represent just the beginning of a major government offensive in the region.
What’s in ASEAN’s First State of Climate Change Report?
By Yosuke Arino and S.V.R.K. Prabhakar
The report outlines ASEAN’s plan to transition toward a resilient and net-zero emission world.
ASEAN Summit Should Draw Attention to Brunei’s Appalling Human Rights Record
By Kasthuri Patto
Two years after Hollywood’s boycott campaign, Brunei continues to restrict the freedom of religion or belief.
Indonesia Warily Weighs Holiday Travel With Virus Concerns
By David Rising and Edna Tarigan
After announcing that year-end travel would be permitted, the government cancelled the Christmas Eve holiday, a Friday this year, in an effort to discourage vacationing somewhat.
Thailand’s Escalating Crackdown on Dissent
By Pornpen Khongkachonkiet
Thailand may be opening up to tourists, but for many activists it is still a prison.
US, China, Russia Join Asia Summit Amid Regional Disputes
By Eileen Ng and Niniek Karmini
There is no shortage of challenges in Asia these days, from the pandemic, to Myanmar to increasing U.S.-China tensions.
Malaysia Plans to Avoid Another COVID-19 Disaster During State Polls
By Alifah Zainuddin
Local authorities must figure out the safest way to cast a ballot to avoid another virus outbreak.
A Facade of Progress: Singapore’s Response to Climate Change
By Maggie Allegar
The Singaporean government has so far prioritized economic interests over environmental sustainability.
ASEAN Summit Opens Via Video Link, Minus Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
Myanmar chose not to send a delegate to the summit after the bloc voted to take coup leader Min Aung Hlaing off the guest list.
Islamic Schools and Girls’ Education in Indonesia: Lessons for the Taliban
By M Niaz Asadullah
Indonesia has shown that education based on Islamic precepts is not incompatible with the expansion of education to girls and women.
Cambodia Tweaks Constitution to Block Dual Citizens From Top Posts
By Sebastian Strangio
The move came barely three weeks after an erroneous newspaper report that Prime Minister Hun Sen had purchased Cypriot citizenship.