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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.
What’s in the First Russia-Brunei Navy Dialogue?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A new first holds significance within the broader bilateral defense relationship.
Mahathir Renews Malaysia’s Love Affair With Japan
By Prashant Waikar
Mahathir is moving closer to Japan, but he is not pushing China away.
Why Is the Philippines the Home for Chinese Offshore Gambling?
By Alvin Camba
The Philippines' unique economic structure explains why nearly all Chinese FDI is being funneled into one sector: gambling.
ASEAN’s False US-China Choice: Rhetoric and Reality
By Prashanth Parameswaran
An overemphasis on Southeast Asia’s false choice between Washington and Beijing grossly oversimplifies regional realities.
Vietnam-Singapore Military Ties in the Headlines with Defense Policy Dialogue
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The ninth iteration of their DPD offered insights into matters of interest for both sides bilaterally as well as in the wider region and world.
Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge Era in the Spotlight with Guilty Verdicts
By Luke Hunt
Despite two sentencings, questions on the quest for justice remain.
Xi Jinping Capitalizes on ‘Rainbow After the Rain’ in the Philippines
By Chester Cabalza
Despite warning signs, both Manila and Beijing were determined to celebrate Xi's visit.
Boosting Malaysia-Russia Relations
By Li Xirui
Russia and Malaysia are likely to deepen their ties through defense cooperation and trade.
What’s Behind the New India-Indonesia Navy Exercise?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A closer look at what a new drill means for the broader bilateral relationship
Vietnam's Communist Chief Is No Xi Jinping
By David Hutt
Misguided comparisons rest on a fundamental misunderstanding of the capabilities and limits of the Vietnamese Communist Party chief.
Indonesia’s 2019 Election: Food (Prices) for Thought
By Erin Cook
The economic debate is heating up as the country approaches its next presidential election.
Thailand’s Politics Heat Up Ahead of Elusive Election
By Luke Hunt
With the new round of hype over potential polls in Thailand has come a focus on parties, players, and who the future prime minister could be.