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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.
US Warns China Against ‘Harassment’ of Philippine Vessels
By Sebastian Strangio
The statement from Washington followed another near-collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the South China Sea.
An Australian Who Worked to Restore Cambodian Culture Dies at 76
By Luke Hunt
The passing of Darryl Collins is seen as "a great loss” for Cambodia.
The SEA Games Contain the Seeds of Their Own Irrelevance
By Pattharapong Rattanasevee
The biennial Southeast Asian sporting competition privileges national interests over fairness and sporting spirit.
US Lifts Ban on Imports From Major Malaysian Glove Manufacturer
By Sebastian Strangio
In late 2021, U.S. authorities barred goods manufactured by the company Smart Glove from entering the country due to its alleged use of forced labor.
Myanmar’s Military Junta and the Neo-Authoritarian Bloc
By Andreus Sang
The National Unity Government is bereft of any meaningful external support while the junta has been well assisted by its fellow authoritarians since the 2021 coup.
Thailand’s Democrat Party Pledges to Legalize Sex Toys
By Sebastian Strangio
The conservative party is making a desperate play to reverse its sliding electoral fortunes at next month's election.
Laos Is Not in a Chinese ‘Debt Trap’ – But It Is in Trouble
By Anjali Bhatt
Laos is disturbingly reliant on investment from China – and no one knows how much, and under what terms.
How the Arakan Army Has Capitalized on Myanmar’s Coup
By Kyaw Hsan Hlaing
Over the past two years, the insurgent group has steadily extended and deepened its control over Rakhine State.
Singapore Executes Man Over Cannabis Trafficking Plot
By Sebastian Strangio
The plight of Tangaraju Suppiah has attracted vocal international support, but a shift in policy from the city-state is unlikely.
Philippines’ President Marcos Bound for Washington Next Week
By Sebastian Strangio
The meeting punctuates a period of swift advancement in the security alliance between the Philippines and the United States.
Time Is Running out for Indonesia to Turn the Tide on Myanmar
By David Hutt
If Indonesia ends up the steward of ASEAN’s failure over Myanmar, Laos – the next chair – will be the gravedigger.
Yasmin Church Dispute Reveals the Tensions in Indonesia’s Religious Policy
By Paul Marshall
One congregation’s struggle to build a new church is a microcosm of the conflicting currents of religious tolerance, religious harmony, and religious freedom in Indonesia.