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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.
The Toxic Impact of Indonesia’s Abusive Blasphemy Law
By Andreas Harsono
A strain of intolerance is fueling the recent spate of blasphemy prosecutions.
Can the Philippines Afford Duterte's Infrastructure Spending Spree?
By Yigal Chazan
Some fear a huge construction program aimed to boost employment and foreign investment could rack up unsustainable debt.
Where Will Myanmar's Energy Come From?
By Amara Thiha
Energy demand in the country is expected to soar over the next decades. Can Myanmar keep the lights on?
Vietnam Kidnaps Corruption Suspect in Berlin
By Anton Tsvetov
Domestic politics flared up into an international dispute between Vietnam and Germany.
Why Vietnam Must Fight the Islamic State Terror Threat
By Zachary Abuza
The threat presents both challenges and opportunities that Hanoi cannot ignore.
Indonesia New North Natuna Sea: A Response to an Old China Problem
By Luke Hunt
A recent name change is rooted in deeper disagreements between Jakarta and Beijing related to the South China Sea.
Cambodia's Microfinance Industry: Why Bigger May Not Be Better
By David Hutt
A closer look at an issue that has been in the spotlight recently.
Time for ASEAN to Get Serious About Cyber Crime
By Qiheng Chen
ASEAN should look to forge its own cyber agreement.
What Did the New Asia Terrorism Meeting in Indonesia Achieve?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The engagement reflected growing alarm about the terrorism threat and ongoing subregional cooperation to combat it.
US Gives Philippines 2 New Military Surveillance Aircraft Amid Rising Terror Threat
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Washington delivers yet another much-needed capability boost to the Southeast Asian state.
Why Was a North Korean Official in the Philippines Before the ASEAN Regional Forum?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A recent engagement speaks to diplomatic efforts being waged by various actors amid growing alarm.
Malaysia to Deploy More Terror Aid to Philippines
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A second round of assistance is underway.