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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.
Indonesia Yet to Create Joint Maritime Development Areas With China, FM Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Sugiono has played down the significance of a joint statement that appeared to recognize China's expansive claims in the South China Sea.
Vietnam’s National Assembly Approves High-Speed Rail Project
By Sebastian Strangio
The rail line, which will link the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City to the capital Hanoi, is expected to cost $67 billion.
Methanol Poisoning Is Senseless and Easily Preventable. Why Does it Keep Happening?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The recent deaths of six foreign tourists in Laos has cast a light on a long-standing problem in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam Sets Off Down the Path of Institutional ‘Revolution’
By Hai Hong Nguyen
To Lam, the new chief of the Communist Party of Vietnam, has pledged to lead the country into a "new era."
From Paradise to Plastics Pollution: Bali’s Battle Against Marine Plastics Debris
By Emenda Sembiring, Attar Hikmahtiar Ramadan, and Elprida Agustina
Bali has a unique opportunity to address plastic waste by integrating sustainable practices into the tourism experience.
Philippine President Discourages Impeachment Bid Against the Vice President
By Mong Palatino
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also described his feud with Vice President Sara Duterte and her family as a "storm in a teacup."
Myanmar Navy Fires At Thai Fishing Boats, Detains 31 Crew
By Sebastian Strangio
Thailand continues to experience the backwash from the internal ructions in Myanmar.
Indonesian President’s Coalition Set For Victory in Regional Elections
By Sebastian Strangio
Provisional results show Prabowo Subianto's Onward Indonesia Coalition dominating in key provinces, but the opposition is set to win in the capital Jakarta.
ICC Prosecutor Requests Arrest Warrant for Myanmar Junta Chief
By Sebastian Strangio
Min Aung Hlaing has been accused of crimes against humanity for the deportation and persecution of Rohingya civilians in 2017.
Philippine Vice President Denies Planning to Kill President Marcos
By Sebastian Strangio
Sara Duterte's references to the EDSA Revolution, which overthrew Marcos' father in 1986, have pushed their rivalry into a more ominous phase.
Myanmar Resistance Group Says It Is Willing to Negotiate With Junta
By Sebastian Strangio
The Ta'ang National Liberation Army is one of several rebel groups that have inflicted serious defeats on the Myanmar military over the past year.
Malaysia and South Korea Pledge Deeper Cooperation on Defense, Trade
By Sebastian Strangio
Anwar Ibrahim and Yoon Suk-yeol say their governments aim to finalize a free trade agreement by next year.