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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.
ASEAN Envoy Cancels Planned Myanmar Trip Due to Junta Stonewalling
By Sebastian Strangio
ASEAN's patience with the junta is wearing thin. But can it muster the consensus necessary to take a harder line?
Why Vaccine Hesitancy is Rising Among Thailand’s Youth
By Wichuta Teeratanabodee
Many young Thais are deeply suspicious of the current government and its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Indonesia to Use State Budget for Cost Overrun on Chinese Rail Project
By Sebastian Strangio
Since its inception in 2015, the headline BRI project has seen repeated delays and inflated costs.
After Killing, Bangladesh Launches Crackdown in Rohingya Camps
By Sebastian Strangio
Bangladeshi police have made nearly 40 arrests, including five in connection with last month's murder of a prominent Rohingya advocate.
Indonesia’s Climate Commitments Ahead of the COP-26 Summit
By Noto Suoneto
The upcoming climate summit offers President Joko Widodo an opportunity to realize his vision of Indonesia as a “bridge builder” and global problem solver.
Lawyer: Myanmar Ex-president Testifies He Refused to Resign
By Grant Peck
Former President Win Myint reportedly testified that he would “rather die” than resign as the Myanmar military had demanded.
Malaysian Defense Minister Hoping for ASEAN Consensus on AUKUS
By Sebastian Strangio
A consensus statement on the new partnership would be the beginning of its efforts to formulate a joint approach to burgeoning Sino-American rivalry.
Resistance Attacks on Myanmar Junta Growing in Frequency, Intensity
By Sebastian Strangio
While the NUG's casualty figures are hard to verify, there is substantial evidence that civilian militias are striking increasing blows against the Tatmadaw.
Thailand to Introduce Quarantine-Free Travel for Selected Visitors
By Sebastian Strangio
The move marks an acceleration of the country’s timetable for the restart of its economically pivotal tourism industry.
EU Parliament Voices Support for Myanmar’s Opposition Government
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite the motion, Western support for the National Unity Government is likely to remain informal and unofficial.
Malaysia Lifts Ban On Interstate, Overseas Travel In Transition To Endemic Phase
By Alifah Zainuddin
The next few weeks will reveal if the country is prepared for a COVID-19 endemic phase, or if it will experience another wave of hospitalizations.
UN Strikes Deal for Access to Bangladeshi Refugee Island
By Sebastian Strangio
The arrangement will grant UNHCR an official presence on Bhasan Char, which has been criticized for its remoteness and vulnerability to extreme weather.