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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.
Indonesia’s Presidential Election: What You Need to Know
By Sebastian Strangio
The most important things to watch ahead of the world's largest single-day poll on February 14.
Myanmar Humanitarian Corridor to Be Established Soon, Thai FM Says
By Sebastian Strangio
But the ASEAN-endorsed aid plan will be tightly constrained by its reliance on the cooperation of Myanmar's military junta.
Indonesia’s Presidential Hopefuls Woo Young Voters With Social Media, K-Pop
By Edna Tarigan
Around 205 million Indonesians are eligible to vote on February 14, more than half of them under the age of 43.
Are the Dutertes the New Opposition in the Philippines?
By Mong Palatino
Despite their recent tensions with President Marcos and his allies, the Dutertes have not yet fully cut their ties with the ruling coalition.
Papuan Rebel Group Says It Is Willing to Release Abducted New Zealand Pilot
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement hinted at disagreements within the separatist movement, which could complicate Philip Mehrtens' release.
Thai Government and Southern Separatists Agree to New Plan to End Conflict
By Sebastian Strangio
After a hiatus in peace talks due to last year's Thai election, the two sides "are willing to put pen on paper," the Malaysian mediator said yesterday.
Cambodia’s Former PM Sues Rights Activist For Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
The lawsuit, filed on Monday, is the latest sign that the country's rolling political crackdown is continuing under its new-look leadership.
Detained Former Thai PM Could Face Royal Defamation Charge, Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Thaksin Shinawatra has been informed about a lese-majeste complaint claiming that he insulted the monarchy in a 2015 interview in South Korea.
How Indonesia Can Better Conserve Sumatra’s Peatland Forests
By Mohammad Yunus
The current approach isn't working. The government needs to align its efforts with the economic needs of local communities.
New Myanmar Aid Corridor Aimed at Opening Dialogue, Thai Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite a marked shift in the country's approach to its war-torn neighbor, a comprehensive political dialogue is unlikely – at least for now.
New Cambodian PM to Depart on First State Visit to Thailand
By Sebastian Strangio
Hun Manet's scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will focus on economic cooperation and border issues, according to the two governments.
Cambodia Looks to the Future By Luring Back Western Investors
By Luke Hunt
The IMF sees significant downside risks as Cambodia slips on corruption index.