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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.
New ASEAN Envoy on Myanmar Meets Junta Chief on First Mission
By Sebastian Strangio
Alounkeo Kittikhoun is undertaking his first mission to Myanmar after taking up the rotating post at the start of this month.
Borderless Haze Threatens Southeast Asia
By Helena Varkkey
Governments, civil society, and the international community need to work fast to combat the threat of smoke haze in Southeast Asia.
Thailand’s Stimulus Program on Schedule for May Launch, PM Says
By Sebastian Strangio
There is still a lack of clarity about the government's plans to take out foreign loans to fund the $14.3 billion scheme.
Cambodian PM Hun Manet’s Rise to the Top of the CPP Leadership
By Chhengpor Aun
Since taking the reins from his father in August, Manet has also been promoted into the top ranks of the ruling party.
Singapore Says It Will Join US-Led Red Sea Operation
By Sebastian Strangio
The commitment is consistent with the city-state's long commitment to norms and rules supporting unimpeded global trade.
Anwar Ibrahim, Anti-Semite?
By David Hutt
The Malaysian leader has long expressed strong, and at times contradictory, views on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Indonesian Court Acquits Two Prominent Rights Defenders of Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
Fatia Maulidiyanti and Haris Azhar were accused of defaming a senior member of President Joko Widodo's cabinet.
Where Does Anies Baswedan Stand on Indonesia’s Foreign Policy?
By Noto Suoneto
Of the three Indonesian presidential candidates, the former Jakarta governor has promised the largest break with President Joko Widodo's approach.
Why Cambodia’s Government Cannot Win Its Fight Against Corruption
By David Hutt
As demonstrated by the scourge of hit-and-run violence on the nation's roads, the political system rests on the idea that some people are more equal than others.
ASEAN Chair Laos Appoints Special Envoy on Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The appointment of the veteran diplomat Alounkeo Kittikhoun is unlikely to do much to arrest the momentum of the country's conflict.
Chinese Official Meets Myanmar Junta Chief as Rebels Capture Key Town
By Sebastian Strangio
The two sides pledged to "jointly maintain peace and stability on the China-Myanmar border" and fight telecom scam operations.
Cambodian Government Critic Arrested for Facebook Post
By Sebastian Strangio
Ny Nak's arrest comes four months after he was beaten up in broad daylight in the capital Phnom Penh.