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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.
Ramping up Inoculation Drive, Indonesia Approves Fourth Chinese Vaccine
By Sebastian Strangio
The approval of the Zifivax jab is set to add further momentum to the country's vaccine rollout, but serious obstacles remain
Is the West Responsible for Southeast Asia’s Democratic Backsliding?
By Lasse Schuldt
Universal security narratives on fake news, terrorist financing, and foreign interference have been adopted across the region – with troubling effects on freedom of expression.
Philippine VP Leni Robredo Enters Crowded Presidential Ring
By Sebastian Strangio
The May 2022 poll is shaping up as a rematch of the close-run vice presidential race of 2016.
Malaysia Threatens to Open Talks With Myanmar Opposition Forces
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah once again condemned the junta's lack of cooperation on the implementation of an ASEAN consensus agreement.
Cambodia Considers Dual Citizenship Ban for High Office Holders
By Sebastian Strangio
The knee-jerk move followed a newspaper report – later corrected – that Prime Minister Hun Sen had acquired Cypriot citizenship.
Is ASEAN at Fault for Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions?
By David Hutt
Through its dithering and lack of unity, the bloc has opened a space for further interference from outside powers.
Ready or Not, Cambodia Plots its ‘New Normal’
By Luke Hunt
Official caseloads are plummeting after the government scaled back rapid COVID-19 testing.
Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi Set to Testify in Incitement Trial
By Sebastian Strangio
The military's persecution of the NLD leader could reinforce her symbolic power.
Son of Philippine Dictator Marcos Announces Presidential Campaign
By Sebastian Strangio
Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has promised the Philippine people "unifying leadership," despite his family's dark and divisive legacy.
What Happened To China’s BRI Projects in Malaysia?
By Alifah Zainuddin
Of the slew of BRI megaproject deals signed over the first five years of the initiative, most have either been canceled or come to a standstill.
Singapore Passes ‘Foreign Interference’ Bill Amid Criticism
By Sebastian Strangio
The city-state claims the law is needed to safeguard Singaporean sovereignty. Critics say it is broadly worded and open to abuse.
Myanmar Junta Could be Excluded From ASEAN Summit: Malaysia
By Sebastian Strangio
The Southeast Asian bloc appears to be losing patience with the reviled junta of Sen. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing.