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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.
Cambodia Sentences 31 Opposition Figures to Prison in Second Mass Trial
By Sebastian Strangio
Outside the courtroom, police arrested the prominent Cambodian-American activist Theary Seng.
Timor-Leste-China Relations: Where Does the Concern Lie?
By Joao da Cruz Cardoso
President Jose Ramos-Horta's recent promise to expand bilateral relations with Beijing made headlines around the world.
Thai PM Meets US Defense Secretary in a Bid to Advance Security Ties
By Sebastian Strangio
The meeting reflects a palpable warming of relations between Bangkok and Washington.
The Rebirth of Marcos’ ‘New Society:’ A Cautionary Tale 36 Years in the Making
By Japhet Quitzon
Many of the Filipinos who voted for Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had grown tired of corrupt officials, slow progress, and broken promises.
Cambodian PM Urges Myanmar Not to Execute Political Prisoners
By Sebastian Strangio
Earlier this month, the military junta announced that four people would be hanged on treason and terrorism charges.
Indonesia and Qatar Collaborate on Afghanistan Relief Efforts
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama
The two are Muslim-majority nations that have sought a similar role as international mediators.
Malaysia Abolishes Mandatory Use of the Death Penalty
By Sebastian Strangio
While falling short of a total ban on capital punishment, the move is a rare sign of progress for Southeast Asia.
Myanmar Junta to Move Forward With Trial of Australian Economist
By Sebastian Strangio
Sean Turnell, a former adviser to Aung San Suu Kyi, was arrested shortly after last February's coup d'etat.
US Official Meets Marcos in Philippines in Diplomatic Push
By David Rising
Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met the president-elect in a clear sign the U.S. is willing to work with the future Marcos administration.
For Medicinal and Other Purposes, Cannabis Makes a Return to Thailand
By Luke Hunt
Thailand becomes the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize marijuana.
Shangri-La Defense Dialogue Set to Open Amid Growing Global Tensions
By Sebastian Strangio
Taiwan, Ukraine, and growing U.S.-China competition are all expected to figure during the three-day conference.
Putting a Positive Spin on Cambodia’s Local Election
By David Hutt
For the first time, an opposition party not led by a magnetic political personality has made inroads.