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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.
Philippines Again Accuses China of Intruding Into Its Portion of the South China Sea
By Sebastian Strangio
The accusation follows the Chinese military's claim that a Philippine vessel "illegally entered" the area around Scarborough Shoal, which both nations claim.
Ex-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Sued Over ‘Grave Threats’
By Mong Palatino
The case, filed by Representative France Castro over threats made Rodrigo Duterte on his TV program, will be a crucial test of the country's judicial system.
The Significance of Indonesia’s Hosting of the Archipelago and Island States Forum
By Ahalla Tsauro and Dini Putri Saraswati
Jakarta has a chance to position itself as a leading representative of those states whose security and prosperity is most closely tied to the ocean.
US Has Pressured Malaysia to Shift Stance on Hamas, Anwar Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's pro-Hamas stance may be distasteful to many, but the U.S. is unlikely to expend significant diplomatic and political capital in order to change it.
Chinese Public Security Minister Visits Myanmar Amid Northern Fighting
By Sebastian Strangio
Wang Xiaohong's talks with senior junta officials took place after a resistance offensive overran junta positions across the northern part of Shan State.
How to Make 2023 an Annus Mirabilis for Vietnam-Australia Relations
By Hai Hong Nguyen
All year there has been talk that the two nations will establish a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Could it happen before the end of 2023?
Western Governments Announce New Round of Sanctions on Myanmar’s Military
By Sebastian Strangio
The measures included the U.S. Treasury Department's first sanctions against the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, the military's largest single source of foreign revenue.
Hydropower Dams Threaten Crucial Mekong Supply Chains, WWF Says
By Sebastian Strangio
In a new report, the World Wildlife Fund claims that dam developments, often hailed as an economic boon, could end up weighing down economic growth.
Indonesian Presidential Candidates Call on President to Remain Neutral
By Sebastian Strangio
The comments from Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo follow the appointment of President Joko Widodo's son as their rival's vice presidential running mate.
Can Laos’ Communist Party Recover From the Current Economic Crisis?
By David Hutt
The ruling Lao People's Revolutionary Party has grossly mishandled the economy, but there is no political alternative – at least for now.
‘Operation 1027’: A Turning-Point For Myanmar’s Resistance Struggle?
By Kyaw Hsan Hlaing and Naing Lin
Some Myanmar observers hope that the coordinated offensive in Shan State will catalyze wider changes, and even lead to the collapse of the military administration.
Former Myanmar Information Minister Arrested Over Social Media Posts
By Sebastian Strangio
The arrest of the former army officer followed the imposition of heavy prison terms on two high-ranking members of the military government.