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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.
Can MUDA Capture Malaysia’s Youth Vote?
By Alifah Zainuddin
If all young people gravitate towards MUDA, the youth-based party will instantly become a major political party. But that is unlikely to be the case.
Malaysia Readies for Crucial Sarawak State Elections
By Sebastian Strangio
The elections fall amidst an upswing in pro-autonomy sentiment in the eastern Malaysian state.
New Philippine President, New China Policy?
By Bich T. Tran
The election of Rodrigo Duterte in 2016 initiated a wild swing in the country's policy toward China. Get set for more change in 2022.
Photojournalist Killed in Custody in Myanmar Amid Press Crackdown
By Sebastian Strangio
Reporters Without Borders estimates that 53 journalists remain in the military's custody.
Why the West Has Gone Soft on Human Rights in Vietnam
By David Hutt
Hanoi's strategic importance to the U.S. and its allies has allowed the Communist Party greater leeway in silencing its critics.
Indonesia Begins Administering COVID-19 Vaccines to Children
By Sebastian Strangio
The decision reflects the Indonesian government's desire to prioritize the attainment of herd immunity in the capital Jakarta.
Philippine Leader Quits Senate Race in Latest Flip-flop
By Jim Gomez
Duterte quit the senate race and his preferred candidate, Bong Go, quit the presidential race.
Report: Myanmar Junta Restricting ‘Lifesaving’ Humanitarian Aid
By Sebastian Strangio
The junta's total war on the Myanmar population has extended to tight restrictions on vital aid to the hungry and displaced.
Rights Group Urges ICC Probe of Myanmar Coup Leader
By Sebastian Strangio
The Myanmar Accountability Project claims that there are "overwhelming" grounds for issuing an arrest warrant against Min Aung Hlaing.
Who Will Succeed Joko Widodo as Indonesia’s President?
By Asmiati A. Malik
The elections are still two-and-a-half years away, but already the race to the Presidential Palace is heating up.
Time to Confront Southeast Asia’s Online Wildlife Trafficking
By Danielle Fallin
As COVID-19 restrictions ease in Southeast Asia, illegal wildlife traders are poised to make a comeback.
Myanmar Troops Massacre 11 Civilians in Sagaing: Reports
By Sebastian Strangio
The killings come amid an upsurge of civilian militia activity in Sagaing Region and other parts of central Myanmar.