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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.
Why is Vietnam Worried About Cambodia’s Mekong Canal Project?
By Sothearak Sok
The proposed Funan Techo Canal is set to connect the country's coast to the Mekong River via a system of lock gates.
Thailand’s Wage Battle: Economic Boost or Competitiveness Concern?
By Prem Singh Gill
Deliberation over incremental increases to Thailand's minimum wage underscores a delicate balance between the imperative for fair compensation and the necessity to preserve economic competitiveness.
Philippine Broadcast Regulator Suspends TV Show of Former President Duterte
By Mong Palatino
Duterte’s TV show will be off the air for two weeks. Has the former president finally lost the backing of the ruling coalition?
Thai MPs Urge Talks with Cambodia Over Access to Preah Vihear
By Luke Hunt
Cambodia has every right to stand its ground over a needless Little War
Rights Group Accuses Myanmar Rebel Outfit of Forced Recruitment
By Sebastian Strangio
The allegations raise questions about the MNDAA's relationship to the country's broader anti-junta resistance movement.
Looking Back on Deng Xiaoping’s Landmark Visit to Singapore
By Edmund Lim
The trip, when Deng met Lee Kuan Yew for the first time, offers a reminder of the importance of competent leadership to nations' development.
Thailand Takes Another Step Toward Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
By Sebastian Strangio
The lower house overwhelmingly passed a package of four laws that would redefine marriage as a union between any two individuals.
Thailand’s Quiet Pivot to the Maritime Sphere
By Tita Sanglee
In 2023, the government published several documents detailing the steps necessary to enhance the country's maritime governance.
Workers Lose as Indonesian Laws Can’t Keep Pace With Rideshare Apps
By Nabiyla Risfa Izzati
Gig platforms have mushroomed in Indonesia in the past decade. But regulations have lagged, and it's the workers who pay.
Philippines Again Calls Out China Over South China Sea Clashes
By Sebastian Strangio
The comments from Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro came as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that bilateral relations are "at a crossroads."
Malaysia Bars Israeli Cargo Vessels From Its Ports Over Gaza Conflict
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban singled out ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., Israel’s largest shipping company, which has been permitted to dock at Malaysia's ports since 2002.
Italy and Vietnam Mark 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
By Andrea Pezzati
Recent advances in the relationship reflect Rome’s increased strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific region.