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.

Page 170 of 540
China’s Wedge Strategy Towards the US-Vietnam Partnership

China’s Wedge Strategy Towards the US-Vietnam Partnership

By Khang Vu
Through a variety of measures, Beijing is seeking to reinforce Vietnam’s neutrality in the competition between the superpowers.
Thailand Legalizes Kratom, Popular Plant-based Painkiller

Thailand Legalizes Kratom, Popular Plant-based Painkiller

By Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul
The plant, native to Southeast Asia, is used as a mild stimulant and painkiller.

Malaysia’s New PM Calls For a Political Truce. Will He Succeed?

Malaysia’s New PM Calls For a Political Truce. Will He Succeed?

By Alifah Zainuddin
Newly-appointed prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob takes crucial first step towards a more inclusive political landscape.

Myanmar’s Anti-Junta Resistance Inflicting Rising Casualties: Report

Myanmar’s Anti-Junta Resistance Inflicting Rising Casualties: Report

By Sebastian Strangio
Nearly seven months since the coup, the armed resistance to the military junta continues to grow and expand.

What Does the Taliban Takeover Mean for Violent Extremism in Indonesia?

What Does the Taliban Takeover Mean for Violent Extremism in Indonesia?

By Cameron Sumpter
The impact of Taliban rule on the country's security situation is unclear, but is likely to be less marked than in the 1980s and 1990s.
Vietnam Calls in Army, Introduces Strict Lockdowns in COVID-19 Epicenter

Vietnam Calls in Army, Introduces Strict Lockdowns in COVID-19 Epicenter

By Sebastian Strangio
Last year's successful containment efforts are proving less effective against the Delta variant of COVID-19.

The Kachin Insurgency Could Deal a Heavy Blow to Myanmar’s Military Junta

The Kachin Insurgency Could Deal a Heavy Blow to Myanmar’s Military Junta

By Drake Avila
The KIA threat to Hpakant and Myitkyina could cut off the military from the lucrative jade trade.
Malaysian King Picks Ex-Deputy PM as Nation’s New Leader

Malaysian King Picks Ex-Deputy PM as Nation’s New Leader

By Eileen Ng
The appointment of Ismail Sabri Yaakob restores the United Malays National Organization to its accustomed position of power.

Singapore Announces First No-Quarantine Travel Scheme

Singapore Announces First No-Quarantine Travel Scheme

By Sebastian Strangio
The travel arrangements with Germany and Brunei are part of the city-state's plan of becoming a “COVID-19 resilient nation.”

Malaysia’s Longest-Governing Party Seems Set to Reclaim PM Post

Malaysia’s Longest-Governing Party Seems Set to Reclaim PM Post

By Eileen Ng
Deputy Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob seems set to be appointed Malaysia's next prime minister.

The Last Stand by Pol Pot’s Last Man

The Last Stand by Pol Pot’s Last Man

By Luke Hunt
"No what matter what you decide I will die in prison… that’s the end," Khieu Samphan told the court.
Myanmar Post-Coup Death Toll Tops 1,000: Activist Group

Myanmar Post-Coup Death Toll Tops 1,000: Activist Group

By Sebastian Strangio
The country passes a grim milestone with no clear solution to its political crisis in sight.

Page 170 of 540