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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.
Thailand Extends Hospital Stay of Jailed Former PM Thaksin
By Sebastian Strangio
The former leader has been in hospital since returning from self-exile and beginning a prison term for abuse of power in August.
Malaysia, Singapore Agree to New SEZ to Boost Border Trade
By Sebastian Strangio
The planned SEZ is just one of a range of initiatives designed to tighten the economic integration between the two countries.
ASEAN and Japan: Challenges Present in the New Vision Statement
By OBA Mie
The relationship is evolving.
New ASEAN Envoy on Myanmar Meets Junta Chief on First Mission
By Sebastian Strangio
Alounkeo Kittikhoun is undertaking his first mission to Myanmar after taking up the rotating post at the start of this month.
Security Cooperation Tops Agenda as Marcos and Jokowi Meet in Manila
By Sebastian Strangio
The Philippine leader also raised the case of Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina migrant worker on death row in Indonesia on drug charges.
Malaysia and Indonesia Are Links in Iran’s Drone Supply Chain
By Sribala Subramanian
Companies based in the two countries are part of an "illicit procurement network" that has been targeted by U.S. sanctions.
Borderless Haze Threatens Southeast Asia
By Helena Varkkey
Governments, civil society, and the international community need to work fast to combat the threat of smoke haze in Southeast Asia.
Thailand’s Stimulus Program on Schedule for May Launch, PM Says
By Sebastian Strangio
There is still a lack of clarity about the government's plans to take out foreign loans to fund the $14.3 billion scheme.
Cambodian PM Hun Manet’s Rise to the Top of the CPP Leadership
By Chhengpor Aun
Since taking the reins from his father in August, Manet has also been promoted into the top ranks of the ruling party.
Singapore Says It Will Join US-Led Red Sea Operation
By Sebastian Strangio
The commitment is consistent with the city-state's long commitment to norms and rules supporting unimpeded global trade.
Anwar Ibrahim, Anti-Semite?
By David Hutt
The Malaysian leader has long expressed strong, and at times contradictory, views on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Indonesian Court Acquits Two Prominent Rights Defenders of Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
Fatia Maulidiyanti and Haris Azhar were accused of defaming a senior member of President Joko Widodo's cabinet.