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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 to Push For Full BRICS Membership, New Foreign Minister Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement comes after the nation and three Southeast Asian neighbors were anointed BRICS "partner countries."
Why 2025 Is a Make or Break Year for ASEAN Unity
By Mohd Harith Ramzi
As it prepares to helm the bloc, can Malaysia reignite the flame of Southeast Asian regionalism?
Former Malaysian PM Najib Apologizes for 1MDB, Again Claims Innocence
By Sebastian Strangio
The former leader said that he had already been punished politically and should not also be “legally victimized.”
The Release of Mech Dara: Speaking Truth to Power
By Jacob Sims
Strong international pressure plus U.S. concessions have forced the hand of Cambodia's kleptocratic elite.
Singapore’s ‘Smart’ Tech Policies Require Public Trust
By Kris Hartley
Technology alone will not ensure the success of the city-state's pioneering Smart Nation initiative.
Rights Groups Call on Thai Government to Apprehend Tak Bai Accused
By Sebastian Strangio
With the statute of limitations due in the case to expire tomorrow, the seven defendants accused of the 2004 massacre are set to walk free.
Thai Authorities Cut Illegal Internet Cable Running Into Laos
By Sebastian Strangio
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission claims that the illegal connection was used by Laos-based scamming gangs to target Thai nationals.
Will Indonesia’s New President be a Statesman or a Strongman?
By Parker Novak
If Indonesia is to continue shedding its historical straitjackets and keep its rise on course, the “new” Prabowo needs to show up more often than the “old” one.
Son of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew Granted Asylum in UK
By Sebastian Strangio
Lee Hsien Yang, 67, alleges that he and his wife have been the subject of a campaign of persecution by the Singaporean authorities.
Evictions and Evasions: State Involvement in Southeast Asia’s ‘Golden Era of Organized Crime’
By Jacob Sims
Efforts to obscure or de-center state involvement in regional transnational crime are dangerous, because traditional approaches won’t work to counter crime co-perpetrated by states.
Cambodian Court Refuses Bail For Detained Journalist Mech Dara
By Sebastian Strangio
The 36-year-old, whose reporting has linked powerful businesspeople to the country's online scamming industry, is reportedly suffering from a number of health problems.
Vietnam’s National Assembly Chooses Army General as President
By Sebastian Strangio
The elevation of Luong Cuong, 67, has further increased the presence of security personnel at the upper echelons of Vietnamese politics.