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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.
US Government Returns More Recovered 1MDB Funds to Malaysia
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement came days after the Malaysian government filed 22 lawsuits seeking to recover more than $23 billion in 1MDB-linked assets.
Myanmar Will Free Japanese Journalist as Gesture to Tokyo
By Associated Press
State media announced that Kitazumi Yuki would be released "in view of the close ties and future relations between Myanmar and Japan."
In Papua Fighting, Indonesian Forces Claim Rebel Commander Killed
By Sebastian Strangio
The reports follows Indonesian government promises of a crackdown on separatist fighters in the eastern region.
Myanmar’s Human Rights Violations and ASEAN’s Response
By OBA Mie
The recent measures may be less significant than they seem.
COVID-19 Hits Prisons in Thailand, as Nearly 3,000 Cases Detected
By Sebastian Strangio
Recent Thai COVID-19 outbreaks highlight the dangers posed by Asia's overcrowded and unsanitary prisons.
China Proposing to Host ASEAN Ministers Next Month
By Sebastian Strangio
The proposed meeting follows a flurry of Chinese engagements with Southeast Asia in recent months.
Japanese PM Suga Talks Maritime Security With Vietnam’s President
By Sebastian Strangio
The conversation once again hints at the overlapping strategic and economic interests between the two nations.
As Ramadan Ends, Malaysia Begins Its Third COVID-19 Lockdown
By Sebastian Strangio
The lockdown announcement followed assurances from senior officials that nationwide restrictions were unnecessary.
Thailand Arrests Three Journalists Fleeing Junta Crackdown in Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
How the Thai government handles them will give the world a clear signal of its priorities.
Amid Crackdown, Indonesia Arrests Papuan Independence Leader
By Sebastian Strangio
Victor Yeimo stands accused of organizing the wave of violent pro-independence protests that hit the region in August 2019.
COVID-19 Testing Scam Hits Indonesian Airport
By Harsh Mahaseth
Those involved have gained as much as $125,000 from washing and reusing nasal test swabs.
Shades of South Vietnam in US Troop Withdrawal From Afghanistan
By Luke Hunt
The impending U.S. withdrawal could leave Afghanistan vulnerable to a fresh takeover by the Taliban.