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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.
Where Does Anies Baswedan Stand on Indonesia’s Foreign Policy?
By Noto Suoneto
Of the three Indonesian presidential candidates, the former Jakarta governor has promised the largest break with President Joko Widodo's approach.
Why Cambodia’s Government Cannot Win Its Fight Against Corruption
By David Hutt
As demonstrated by the scourge of hit-and-run violence on the nation's roads, the political system rests on the idea that some people are more equal than others.
ASEAN Chair Laos Appoints Special Envoy on Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The appointment of the veteran diplomat Alounkeo Kittikhoun is unlikely to do much to arrest the momentum of the country's conflict.
Chinese Official Meets Myanmar Junta Chief as Rebels Capture Key Town
By Sebastian Strangio
The two sides pledged to "jointly maintain peace and stability on the China-Myanmar border" and fight telecom scam operations.
Cambodian Government Critic Arrested for Facebook Post
By Sebastian Strangio
Ny Nak's arrest comes four months after he was beaten up in broad daylight in the capital Phnom Penh.
The Local and International Dimensions of Aceh’s Rohingya Crisis
By Virdika Rizky Utama
There are signs that the region's ongoing anti-refugee backlash is being whipped up by domestic actors' quest for political gain.
Myanmar Junta Forces in Laukkai Surrender to MNDAA, Reports Claim
By Sebastian Strangio
If confirmed, the fall of the capital of the Kokang Self-Administered Zone would mark a significant defeat for the military junta that seized power in February 2021.
Indonesian President’s Son Broke Campaign Regulations, Watchdog Rules
By Sebastian Strangio
Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the running-mate of Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, was accused of breaching a minor Jakarta gubernatorial regulation.
Are Presidential and Vice Presidential Debates Helpful?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
Indonesia's recent presidential and vice-presidential debates have obscured as much about the candidates as they have revealed.
US, Philippines, China Begin Simultaneous South China Sea Patrols
By Sebastian Strangio
The dueling patrols, which were scheduled to take place on January 3-4, encapsulate the intensifying frictions in the waterway.
Thailand and China to Introduce Visa-Free Travel From March
By Sebastian Strangio
The move extends makes and permanent a temporary visa waiver that the Thai government introduced in September.
Myanmar Ethnic Armed Groups Draw Allegations of Forced Recruitment
By Naw Theresa
There are many undercurrents to Myanmar’s civil war, and more inconvenient truths will emerge as the fighting escalates.