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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.
Development and Conservation Clash at Indonesia’s Komodo National Park
By Victoria Milko
New development efforts pit hopes for more tourists against concerns about damaging the very same environment that draws them.
‘Sarawak First’ Triumphs as GPS Dominates in Malaysian State Polls
By Alifah Zainuddin
While Sarawakians want more autonomy to govern, they are willing to live with Putrajaya for now.
Explaining Thailand’s Quiet Diplomacy in Myanmar
By Tita Sanglee
Shared borders and longstanding military ties underpin the country's cautious approach since the coup.
Sino-Thai High-Speed Rail Project Takes Another Step Forward
By Sebastian Strangio
The Thai Transport Minister says the design for the second phase of the line is now complete.
Is There Any Solution to Myanmar’s Rohingya Crisis?
By Sebastian Strangio
The February coup has further complicated the potential return of more than 1 million Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
Laos Prepares to Welcome Foreign Tourists From January 1
By Sebastian Strangio
The limited opening ends an 18-month shutdown that has had serious impacts on the country's economy.
A Tumultuous Year in Malaysian Politicking
By Sophie Lemière
The shifting political allegiances of the past three years seem set to continue until the next general election.
Thailand Sends Refugees Back to Myanmar Amid Continued Fighting
By Sebastian Strangio
Civilians were among the several thousand who fled fierce fighting around the town of Lay Kay Kaw last week.
The Apparent Stalemate in Thailand’s Deep South
By Uday Bakhshi
The conflict in southern Thailand remains dormant, but is far from being resolved.
Three Decades of Election Protests in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
Even compared to past Philippine elections, the upcoming presidential polls are shaping up as unusually divisive.
Transgender Thais Lack Vital Legal Protections, Says Rights Group
By Sebastian Strangio
Compared to its neighbors, Thailand is relatively accepting of its transgender population. But there's still a long way to go.
Cambodian PM Nominates Top Diplomat as ASEAN Envoy on Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn can be expected to pursue a strategy of pragmatic engagement with the military junta.