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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.
Thai Cabinet Approves Draft Law Legalizing Gambling
By Sebastian Strangio
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government says that legal casinos will bolster further the recovery of the country's tourism sector.
Killer of Ex-Cambodian MP Won’t Reveal Who Ordered Assassination, Thai Police Say
By Sebastian Strangio
Ekkalak Pheanoi, a former Thai marine, was extradited from Cambodia and questioned by Bangkok police on Saturday.
Malaysia’s Anwar Denies Covering Up Document Permitting Ex-Leader’s House Arrest
By Sebastian Strangio
Najib Razak claims that an unpublished royal order permits him to serve the remainder of his corruption-related sentence at home.
Singapore Should Intervene in the Region’s Online Scam Industry
By David Hutt
The Singaporean government wants to intervene in the bank accounts of its own citizens but not in the scam industries of neighboring countries.
Japan, Malaysia Pledge to Strengthen Economic, Security Ties
By Sebastian Strangio
Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru is visiting Malaysia and Indonesia on his first bilateral state visit since taking office.
Vietnam Deserves More than a Football Crown in Southeast Asia
By Hai Hong Nguyen
The country's recent ASEAN football championship success could soon be matched by achievements in the economic realm.
Cambodian Police Arrest Primary Suspect in Slaying of Former MP
By Sebastian Strangio
An ex-Thai marine is believed to be responsible for the killing of Lim Kimya, a former lawmaker for the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party.
Indonesia Officially Becomes First Southeast Asian Member of BRICS
By Sebastian Strangio
The decision to apply for membership reflects President Prabowo Subianto's more proactive approach to foreign policy.
Former Cambodian Opposition MP Gunned Down in Bangkok
By Sebastian Strangio
The daylight killing of Lim Kimya, a member of the banned Cambodia National Rescue Party, is a sign of the terrifying new reality facing Southeast Asia's dissidents.
Nearly 6,000 Prisoners Released in Myanmar Independence Day Amnesty
By Sebastian Strangio
While the amnesty included around 600 political prisoners, it should not be taken as a sign of conciliation on the part of the military.
Court Grants Ex-Malaysian PM Najib Appeal in House Arrest Ruling
By Sebastian Strangio
The former leader is leaving no leaf unturned in his bid to serve his remaining corruption sentence under house arrest.
What to Expect in Philippine Politics in 2025
By Mong Palatino
The mid-term elections and the ongoing feud between the Marcos and Duterte families are set to dominate the headlines this year.