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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.
Myanmar Resistance Forces Seize Another China Border Crossing
By Sebastian Strangio
The MNDAA's reported capture of the Yanlonkyaing border gate marks a further step toward its reconquest of the Kokang Self-Administered Zone in northern Shan State.
Nguyen Phu Trong Would Find An Ally In Dickens
By David Hutt
The political vision of the Communist Party chief is built on a bedrock of Victorian moralism.
Residents in Western Indonesia Protest Mounting Rohingya Refugee Arrivals
By Sebastian Strangio
The protest in Aceh follows the arrival of more than 1,500 refugees, mostly women and children, since last month.
ASEAN, Japan Pledge to Boost Maritime Security Cooperation
By Sebastian Strangio
The two sides agreed to complement long-standing economic ties by promoting “a rules-based Indo-Pacific region."
Myanmar’s Bleak Economic Prospects Detailed in World Bank Report
By Luke Hunt
Economy deteriorates further as fighting escalates, blocking trade routes with China and other neighboring countries.
Myanmar Ethnic Alliance Continues Gains, Despite China-Brokered Ceasefire
By Sebastian Strangio
A day after Beijing announced the negotiated ceasefire, resistance forces were reported to have seized a key town and border trade zone.
Japan, Malaysia Announce Diplomatic Upgrade, Enhanced Security Cooperation
By Sebastian Strangio
Tokyo announced a grant of $2.8 million to to boost Malaysia's maritime security under its new Overseas Security Assistance initiative.
Recapping the First Year of Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Under Anwar Ibrahim
By Angeline Tan
The Malaysian leader has increased his country's diplomatic focus on ASEAN and the Middle East, while balancing between the major powers.
China Railway Plans to Test Vietnam’s Foreign Policy Equilibrium
By Brandon Tran
The Kunming-Haiphong railway runs directly through Vietnam's most significant deposits of rare earth minerals.
Laos’ Economic Woes Will Continue In 2024
By David Hutt
Given their connection to structural features of communist rule, there will be no quick respite from the economic woes.
Thai Senator Indicted On Drug, Money Laundering Charges
By Sebastian Strangio
Senator Upakit Pachariyangkun is accused of having ties with Myanmar businessman Tun Min Latt, who has close links to junta chief Min Aung Hlaing.
Where Indonesia’s Presidential Candidates Stand On the New Capital Project
By Isti Marta Sukma
President Joko Widodo's new capital is struggling to attract foreign investors. Will it survive beyond next year's election?