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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 Enters ‘Total Lockdown’ as COVID-19 Surge Continues
By Sebastian Strangio
Prime Minister Muhyiddin is facing increasing pressure from the opposition – and from within his own coalition.
Thailand Reports Record Virus Cases; Delays Bangkok Easing
By Chalida Ekvittayavechnukul and Patrick Quinn
Around 82 percent of Thailand's confirmed COVID-19 infections have occurred since April.
Rohingya Refugees Protest Conditions on Remote Island
By Sebastian Strangio
The protest follows reports that refugees were offered Bangladeshi citizenship to undertake the move to Bhasan Char.
Amid Case Surge, Malaysia’s COVID-19 Infection Rate Surpasses India’s
By Luke Hunt
So far this month, the number of “brought in dead” has tripled over April's total.
Myanmar’s Neighborhood Relations After 100 days
By Amara Thiha
The junta's relationships with its three main neighbors could have an outsized say in the trajectory of Myanmar's crisis.
Indonesia Imprisons Cleric for 8 Months Over COVID-19 Breaches
By Sebastian Strangio
Over the past six months, the Indonesian government has intensified its crackdown on hardline Islamic groups.
Total, Chevron Suspend Dividends to Myanmar Oil and Gas Firm
By Sebastian Strangio
The move comes amid growing pressure for foreign firms to cut their ties to the military government.
Thailand Mulls Prisoner Releases as COVID-19 Outbreak Spreads
By Sebastian Strangio
Around 16 percent of those infected in the latest outbreak have been prison inmates.
Internet ‘Whitelist’ Highlights Myanmar Military’s Wishful Economic Thinking
By Sebastian Strangio
Facebook and Twitter are out. A suite of business applications and messaging services are in.
Vaccines, Not Lockdowns, Underpin Cambodia’s Fight Against COVID-19
By Luke Hunt
Curfew lifted in Phnom Penh but case numbers remain high.
Malaysian Advocacy Groups Sound Alarm Over Attacks on Press, Politicians
By Sebastian Strangio
This year has seen at least five cases in which journalists have been questioned and investigated for their reporting.
Amid Chinese Push, US Official to Visit Three Southeast Asian Nations
By Sebastian Strangio
Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman is scheduled to visit Jakarta, Bangkok, and Phnom Penh.