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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.
How ASEAN’s Cybersecurity Push Could Protect People and Economies
By Muhammad Faizal Abdul Rahman
As cybersecurity threats rise across Southeast Asia, new ASEAN initiatives target scam prevention, infrastructure security, and economic and social stability.
Rights Group Demands Investigation of Myanmar National’s Death in Thailand
By Sebastian Strangio
The advocacy group Fortify Rights said that Thai soldiers were responsible for the torture and killing of Aung Ko Ko, 37, in January.
China, Myanmar to Establish Joint Security Company, Reports Say
By Sebastian Strangio
As the military junta loses ground, Beijing's concern about the fate of Chinese assets and personnel inside the country is growing.
Philippines Inches Closer to Cooperating with the International Criminal Court
By Mong Palatino
The Marcos administration's hardline position toward the ICC is beginning to soften as its feud with the Dutertes intensifies.
Microfinance Mouthpiece 60 Decibels Drops Case for Defense of Cambodia
By David Whitehouse
The microfinance industry's own boosters are struggling to put a positive spin on the country's debt crisis.
Philippine President Says He Will Allow ICC Probe if Predecessor Wants It
By Sebastian Strangio
This week, former President Rodrigo Duterte told the international tribunal to "hurry up" with its investigation into his bloody "war on drugs."
Is Thailand’s Power Grid a Gas Guzzler?
By Sribala Subramanian
The country's recent LNG splurge has strained the national budget.
Malaysia to Protest Passage of Philippine Maritime Laws, Government Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Kuala Lumpur believes that the recently enacted legislation encroaches on a long-standing dispute over the eastern Malaysian state of Sabah.
Indonesian President Vows to Defend Sovereignty in South China Sea
By Sebastian Strangio
Prabowo Subianto's comments came four days after he signed an agreement in China that appeared to recognize Beijing's expansive maritime claim.
How ASEAN Can Help Mediate in Myanmar
By Leni Winarni
As Myanmar’s military grip weakens amid violence and displacement, ASEAN faces pressure to mediate in a crisis that challenges its principles and unity.
Former Malaysian Finance Minister Daim Zainuddin Dies at Age 86
By Sebastian Strangio
The lawyer-turned-businessman was a key economic powerbroker under former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.
Indonesia’s Prabowo Meets With President Biden on US Trip
By Sebastian Strangio
The Indonesian leader also spoke by phone with President-elect Donald Trump, congratulating him on his recent election victory.