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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.
Myanmar Junta Imposes Fresh Charges on Aung San Suu Kyi
By Sebastian Strangio
The military is attempting to sideline the 76-year-old leader from Myanmar politics permanently.
Malaysia’s ‘Total Lockdown’ Failure Plunges Hospitals Into Crisis
By Alifah Zainuddin
A COVID-19 surge is overwhelming many of Malaysia’s intensive care units, as rivalries among politicians allow a disaster to unfold.
The Regional Absence in Mainland Southeast Asia’s COVID-19 Strategy
By David Hutt
Despite their local vaccination efforts, the nations of the region won't be safe until the entire region achieves herd immunity.
Key Questions Remain Unanswered in Killing of Cambodian Activist
By Sebastian Strangio
The 2016 killing of Dr. Kem Ley marked the beginning of a severe tightening of the political space.
COVID-19 Tightens Its Grip on Southeast Asia
By Sebastian Strangio
At least half of the region's 11 nations have seen record daily infection counts over the past week.
COVID-19’s Toll on Youth in Southeast Asia
By Karen Lee
With infections spiking across the region, young people are likely to be disproportionately affected over the long term.
Norway’s Telenor Sells Myanmar Telecoms Operation to Lebanese Firm
By Sebastian Strangio
The buyer was M1 Group, a Beirut-based firm with links to Myanmar's military.
UMNO Withdraws Its Support for Malaysian Ruling Coalition
By Sebastian Strangio
The move comes after months of sniping between the party and Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin's camp.
Desperate Indonesians Search for Oxygen as Virus Cases Soar
By Niniek Karmini
Hospitals are bursting beyond capacity and oxygen supplies are running out, leaving people desperate.
ASEAN Plans to Expedite Myanmar Response: Singapore
By Sebastian Strangio
The Southeast Asian bloc has so far struggled to implement its "five-point consensus."
Why are Former Philippine Presidents Running for Lower-Level Posts?
By Mong Palatino
President Duterte's mooted vice presidential run would follow in the footsteps of other recent ex-leaders.
Amid Coup Crisis, COVID-19 Hits New Daily Highs in Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
With health workers on strike and much of the public in open rebellion, a new wave of infections could prove devastating.