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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.
Malaysia’s PM to Decide on Parliament Return as Pandemic Worsens
By Alifah Zainuddin
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin barely survived the last sitting of parliament. Will he survive the next?
Thailand Reopens Resort Island to International Tourists
By Sebastian Strangio
The government hopes that the “Phuket sandbox” scheme will lead to the revival of Thailand's tourist industry.
Activists, Journalists Included in Myanmar Prisoner Release
By Grant Peck
The military gave no reason for the sudden release of prisoners, which included many detained since its February coup.
Mekong River Commission Calls for Improved Hydropower Data Sharing
By Sebastian Strangio
The past two years have seen water levels on the lower Mekong rise and full unpredictably.
Don’t Call Me Junta: Myanmar’s Military Government Warns Foreign Press
By Sebastian Strangio
The junta's warning is the likely prelude to further crackdowns and restrictions on the press.
Myanmar’s Junta ‘Tightens Its Grip’ on Jade Billions: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The military's control of the prized mineral will fuel further conflict and offer it an economic lifeline.
Indonesia Mulls Tighter Restrictions to Head Off COVID-19 ‘Catastrophe’
By Sebastian Strangio
In some parts of the country, hospitals are turning away patients as the disease continues its spread.
Google Removes Two Custom Maps Doxing Critics of Thai Monarchy
By Sebastian Strangio
After anti-government demonstrations aired unprecedented criticisms of a powerful institution, the backlash is now in full swing.
Timor-Leste’s Bid for ASEAN Membership Tarnished by Myanmar Vote
By Luke Hunt
Abstention on the U.N. resolution is a “vote of shame,” says Nobel laureate.
Malaysia Announces Massive COVID-19 Aid Package as Thailand Tightens Restrictions
By Sebastian Strangio
Until Southeast Asian nations achieve widespread vaccination distribution, they will continue to struggle with periodic outbreaks and lockdowns.
Civilian Militias Flourish as Myanmar’s Post-Coup Turmoil Deepens
By Sebastian Strangio
Recent months have seen the emergence of a raft of new armed civilian militias, further complicating the country's political crisis.
Will Vaccination Be Hun Sen’s Legacy?
By David Hutt
Cambodia's successful COVID-19 vaccine rollout has given the country's leader a golden chance to bow out of politics. Will he take it?