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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.
‘Bali Nine’ Drug Convicts Return to Australia After Indonesia Deal
By Sebastian Strangio
The five men have returned to Australia after having the rest of their life sentences commuted "on humanitarian grounds."
Where Are Southeast Asia’s ‘Cosmopolitan’ Leaders?
By David Hutt
There is more to cosmopolitanism than a Western education or the ability to speak foreign languages.
The Philippines’ Stakes in South Korea’s Political Chaos
By Nguyen Thanh Long
South Korea has played a crucial role in Manila’s maritime security strategy. Can that cooperation survive if the Yoon administration comes to an abrupt end?
Beyond Bandung: Indonesia’s Evolving Africa Policy Under Prabowo
By Allan Dharma Saputra
The country's relations with Africa have long lagged behind their potential. That could be about to change.
Myanmar Remains World’s Leading Source of Illegal Opium Cultivation
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite a slight decrease in opium production, the UNODC warned that the conditions were in place for its continued expansion.
In Recent Border Controversies, Thailand’s Government Has Been Missing in Action
By William J. Jones
The failure of the Pheu Thai-led government to communicate with the public uniformly and effectively has created openings for its opponents.
Thai Government Approves Measures to Reduce Household Debt
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's household debt-to-GDP ratio is among the highest in Asia, which has acted as brake on its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Did Filipino-Americans Help Trump Win Nevada?
By Sribala Subramanian
Swing voters in a battleground state may have leaned right.
Philippines Will Not Deploy Navy in Stand-offs With China, Marcos Says
By Sebastian Strangio
On December 4, Chinese ships, including a navy vessel, confronted Philippine vessels close to a disputed shoal in the South China Sea.
Ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir Denies Betraying Country Over Island Dispute
By Sebastian Strangio
A royal commission of inquiry has recommended that the former leader face “criminal investigations” for dropping claims to two islets in a dispute with Singapore.
Cambodian Journalist Killed While Covering Illegal Logging
By Luke Hunt
Authorities question Chhoeung Chheung’s credentials amid outcry.
Laos Bestows National Development Award on Sanctioned Chinese ‘Crime Boss’
By Sebastian Strangio
Zhao Wei is the head of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo province, a known haven of cyber-scam operations.