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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.
Lee Kuan Yew’s Youngest Son Requests Permission to Demolish Family Home
By Sebastian Strangio
The home at 38 Oxley Road has been the subject of a bitter family dispute between former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his two siblings.
Thai Progressives Have Written a New Script For Political Opposition
By David Hutt
The People's Party is less focused on personalities and party-building than on slowly shifting the perceptions of the Thai electorate.
Philippine Police Arrest Online Scamming ‘Kingpin’ in Luzon
By Sebastian Strangio
Police allege that Chinese national Lin Xunhan, 33, has organized online fraud operations in several parts of the country.
Former Philippine President Duterte Makes Political Comeback Amid Usual Controversy
By Ben Sturt
The ex-leader's return coincides with the eroding relationship between his family and the Marcos clan, as well as the arrest of his close ally, televangelist Apollo Quiboloy.
What Is Vietnam’s Strategic Narrative?
By Vu Le Thai Hoang and Ngo Di Lan
Vietnam's evolving strategic narrative, as articulated by To Lam, reflects a nation at the crossroads of global affairs.
The Impact of a Fractured Jokowi-Prabowo Coalition
By Nathaniel Schochet
A split between Jokowi and Prabowo could lead to political instability in one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
At ASEAN Meeting, US Condemns Chinese Actions in South China Sea
By Sebastian Strangio
Secretary of State Antony Blinken's comments came after Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on China and ASEAN to revive negotiations over a Code of Conduct.
ASEAN Again Urges End to Myanmar Conflict, but Struggles For Way Forward
By Sebastian Strangio
A wide gap continues to separate the bloc's Five-Point Consensus peace plan with the aims and perceptions of Myanmar's primary belligerents.
What’s Old and New in the Midterm Philippine Elections?
By Mong Palatino
The May 2025 elections are set to be dominated by established political dynasties, including the Marcos and Duterte clans.
Asbestos: Singapore’s Toxic Past Is Catching up With It
By Sean Lim
The number of cancer cases in Singapore is on the rise even though the hazardous material was banned more than 30 years ago.
Detained Filipino Preacher Registers to Run in 2025 Senate Election
By Sebastian Strangio
Apollo Quiboloy faces a raft of charges, including sex trafficking and child abuse, in both the Philippines and the United States.
Anwar Ibrahim in Russia: Opportunism or Hatred of the West?
By David Hutt
The Malaysian leader's apparent embrace of Russia reflects a growing cynicism about the current U.S.-backed global order.