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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.

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Gunmen Kill New Zealand Helicopter Pilot in Another Attack in Indonesia’s Restive Papua Region

Gunmen Kill New Zealand Helicopter Pilot in Another Attack in Indonesia’s Restive Papua Region

By Alfian Kartono and Niniek Karmini
The gunmen then released the Indigenous Papuan passengers and set fire to the plane.
Myanmar Resistance Group Claims It Has ‘Fully Captured’ Key Military HQ

Myanmar Resistance Group Claims It Has ‘Fully Captured’ Key Military HQ

By Sebastian Strangio
The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army has released images of its forces inside the headquarters of the Northeast Regional Command in Lashio.

Vietnam’s President Confirmed as New Communist Party Chief

Vietnam’s President Confirmed as New Communist Party Chief

By Sebastian Strangio
While his accession marks the beginning of a new era in Vietnamese politics, To Lam is unlikely to enact major changes to the country's domestic or foreign policy.

Indonesia to Pursue Closer Relations With Russia, President-Elect Says

Indonesia to Pursue Closer Relations With Russia, President-Elect Says

By Sebastian Strangio
The president-elect's visit to Russia is a sign that Prabowo Subianto's administration will remain staunchly committed to the country's non-aligned foreign policy.

Cutting Losses: Southeast Asia’s Crackdown on Online Gambling

Cutting Losses: Southeast Asia’s Crackdown on Online Gambling

By Amelie De Leon
Governments are slowly waking up to the risks posed by the sector's connection to criminal operations including large-scale cyber-scams.
Myanmar Junta Extends Post-Coup State of Emergency for Sixth Time

Myanmar Junta Extends Post-Coup State of Emergency for Sixth Time

By Sebastian Strangio
Despite the deteriorating security situation, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing remains committed to holding elections at some point next year.

Tension and Teamwork: The Dual Dynamics of Thailand-Vietnam Relations

Tension and Teamwork: The Dual Dynamics of Thailand-Vietnam Relations

By Tita Sanglee
Thai commentators fear that fast-growing Vietnam could steal their nation's economic crown, but in most respects bilateral relations are in a better state than ever before.
Hit Netflix Series Offers an Authentic Depiction of Life in Indonesia

Hit Netflix Series Offers an Authentic Depiction of Life in Indonesia

By Aisyah Llewellyn
Despite its sci-fi spin, the Indonesian series “Nightmares and Daydreams” offers acute social commentary on a number of issues facing the country.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Arrives in India For Three-day Visit

Vietnamese Prime Minister Arrives in India For Three-day Visit

By Sebastian Strangio
The two nations have strengthened their economic and defense ties considerably since the establishment of their comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016.

UNESCO to Investigate Alleged Rights Abuses at Angkor Wat

UNESCO to Investigate Alleged Rights Abuses at Angkor Wat

By Luke Hunt
The rights group Amnesty International says more than 40,000 people have been forcibly displaced.

Indonesia’s Jokowi Makes Move to New Capital Nusantara

Indonesia’s Jokowi Makes Move to New Capital Nusantara

By Sebastian Strangio
The Garuda Palace is expected to provide the backdrop to Independence Day celebrations that will inaugurate the new capital on August 17.
The Silent Winner of Myanmar’s Northern Conflict

The Silent Winner of Myanmar’s Northern Conflict

By Amara Thiha
From the chaos of the conflict in Shan State, the United Wa State Army has emerged as a potentially decisive force.

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