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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.
Could an Australian Solar Farm Challenge Lao Energy Ambitions?
By Luke Hunt
With ambitious plans to export Australian solar power to Singapore, Sun Cable could reshape ASEAN’s future power demands.
Indonesian Court Throws Out Bid to Change Electoral System
By Sebastian Strangio
The decision ensures that next year's presidential election will proceed according to schedule, under the existing electoral rules.
How Could Myanmar’s Divided People be Brought Together?
By Michael Vatikiotis
The Cambodian peace process of the 1980s offers some lessons for bridging seemingly insuperable differences.
A Third of Domestic Workers In Malaysia Face Forced Labor Conditions, UN Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The report from the ILO highlights a pervasive problem in Southeast Asia, but one that has often been overlooked by policymakers.
The Rohingya Crisis and the Myth of Myanmar Sovereignty
By Muhammad Estiak Hussian
Powerful actors like China, Russia, ASEAN, and many other nations have refused to act in the Rohingya crisis – usually citing Myanmar’s sovereignty and the principle of non-interference.
Chinese Naval Vessel Begins ‘Goodwill’ Visit to Philippines
By Sebastian Strangio
The three-day visit, the first by the Chinese navy since 2019, comes at a difficult time in relations between Beijing and Manila.
Malaysia Seeking Interpol’s Assistance to Investigate Comedian
By Sebastian Strangio
The New York-based comedian Jocelyn Chia created a social media storm last week when she posted a short clip featuring a joke about Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370.
How New Electoral Rules Shaped the Outcome of Thailand’s Election
By Daniel C. O’Neill and Amanda R. Jaroenpokasap
The changes, which included the shift from a single to a dual ballot system, had a different impact than was generally predicted.
Myanmar Military Restricts Access to Areas Hit by Cyclone Mocha
By Sebastian Strangio
The military's decision closes off the limited access of the U.N. and international aid organizations to around 1 million people affected by the storm.
Philippines’ Investment Fund Bill Draws Criticism
By Mong Palatino
A group of prominent economists claims that the Maharlika Investment Fund will draw much-needed cash away from other parts of government.
Compelled Speech on the March in Cambodia With New ‘Mandatory’ Voting Law
By David Hutt
It is no longer enough to remain silent and keep out of politics. Cambodians are now required to actively affirm the ruling regime – including at the ballot box.
Indonesian Court to Rule on Petition Seeking Change to Electoral System
By Sebastian Strangio
A number of politicians have petitioned the Constitutional Court to change from open-list proportional voting to a closed-list system.