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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.
Myanmar’s Shadow Government Issues 10-Point China Policy
By Sebastian Strangio
The shadow government has promised to continue the warm partnership with Beijing maintained by the ousted NLD government.
Remembering John MacDougall, an American Scholar of Indonesia
By Luke Hunt
The anthropologist, who died last week at the age of 53, was a renowned scholar of all things Balinese.
ASEAN Foreign Ministers Speak Out About South China Sea Tensions
By Sebastian Strangio
The diplomats' statement came after a year of growing Chinese aggression in contested parts of the vital waterway.
Why is Vietnam Worried About Cambodia’s Mekong Canal Project?
By Sothearak Sok
The proposed Funan Techo Canal is set to connect the country's coast to the Mekong River via a system of lock gates.
Another Rohingya Refugee Boat Lands in Western Indonesia
By Sebastian Strangio
A surge of boat arrivals from the refugee camps of southeastern Bangladesh is creating tension with local communities.
Filipino Jeepney Drivers Make Last Stand
By Mong Palatino
Drivers and passengers continue to rail against the government's phase-out of the iconic vehicles.
Thailand’s Wage Battle: Economic Boost or Competitiveness Concern?
By Prem Singh Gill
Deliberation over incremental increases to Thailand's minimum wage underscores a delicate balance between the imperative for fair compensation and the necessity to preserve economic competitiveness.
Philippine Broadcast Regulator Suspends TV Show of Former President Duterte
By Mong Palatino
Duterte’s TV show will be off the air for two weeks. Has the former president finally lost the backing of the ruling coalition?
Thai MPs Urge Talks with Cambodia Over Access to Preah Vihear
By Luke Hunt
Cambodia has every right to stand its ground over a needless Little War
Rights Group Accuses Myanmar Rebel Outfit of Forced Recruitment
By Sebastian Strangio
The allegations raise questions about the MNDAA's relationship to the country's broader anti-junta resistance movement.
Looking Back on Deng Xiaoping’s Landmark Visit to Singapore
By Edmund Lim
The trip, when Deng met Lee Kuan Yew for the first time, offers a reminder of the importance of competent leadership to nations' development.
Thailand’s Quiet Pivot to the Maritime Sphere
By Tita Sanglee
In 2023, the government published several documents detailing the steps necessary to enhance the country's maritime governance.