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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.
Anwar Ibrahim Has a China Problem at Luconia Shoals
By Ganesh Sahathevan
The repeated Chinese incursions in the country’s exclusive economic zone are a problem for Malaysia – and for the region as a whole.
Press Watchdog Paints Grim Picture of Southeast Asian Media Freedoms
By Sebastian Strangio
Of the region's 11 nations, just two ranked in the top half of the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index.
Vietnam Arrests Another Senior Figure in Anti-Corruption Drive
By Sebastian Strangio
The anti-graft campaign continues to intensify as the Communist Party begins preparations for its next Congress in early 2026.
The Battle to Restore Public Trust in Malaysia’s Media
By Benjamin YH Loh
A revised code of ethics overseen by the government rightly raises concerns about press freedom in Malaysia. There is an alternative solution.
Vietnam’s Parliament Accepts Chair’s Resignation, Announces Interim Replacement
By Sebastian Strangio
Recent resignations have left two of Vietnam's top leadership positions, and five of the 18 seats on the Communist Party's Politburo, vacant.
Myanmar Junta Bans Men From Overseas Work in Bid to Stymie Draft Dodgers
By Sebastian Strangio
The enforcement of the People’s Military Service Law has prompted thousands of young people to flee the country.
The Marcos-Duterte Rift Widens in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
For the first time, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has spoken out about the growing tensions between the two political clans.
Where is Aung San Suu Kyi?
By Sribala Subramanian
Myanmar's ousted leader was reportedly whisked out of jail during a heatwave.
EU, UN Reschedule Launch of Anti-human Trafficking Project in Cambodia After Questions About Venue
By Jack Brook
The event was scheduled to take place at a hotel owned by the L.Y.P. Group conglomerate, which also owns a casino with links to forced scamming operations.
Philippines Again Accuses China of Inflaming Maritime Tensions
By Sebastian Strangio
Earlier this week, two Philippine vessels were damaged in the latest confrontation with China Coast Guard patrol boats in the South China Sea.
Even If Thailand’s MFP Is Dissolved, the Monarchy Reform Movement Will Live On
By David Hutt
If disbanded over its pledge to reform the country's "sacred" institution, the Move Forward Party will simply re-emerge in new form.
Indonesia Mulling Dual Citizenship In a Bid to Reverse Brain Drain
By Sebastian Strangio
Recent years have seen growing numbers of young Indonesians seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in Singapore.