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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.
Clearing the Skies: Addressing Jakarta’s Air Pollution Problem
By Edward Parker
Reducing the dense smog that settles over the Indonesian capital each dry season will require a multifaceted approach.
An Inside Look at Myanmar Resistance Groups’ Weapons Manufacturing Factories
By Rajeev Bhattacharyya
Local units producing an array of small arms, mortars and ammunition have mushroomed in Sagaing Region.
Malaysia Could Shut Schools Due to Spiking Air Pollution
By Sebastian Strangio
This year has seen the worst air pollution since 2019, due to the effects of the El Nino weather pattern.
Activists Call for Probe Into Alleged Indonesian Arms Sales to Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
A complaint filed with the country's Human Rights Commission claims that three state-owned firms have transferred arms to Myanmar's military in recent years, including since the 2021 coup.
US Defense Ties in Southeast Asia: A Wide-Ranging Buffet
By Sribala Subramanian
The Pentagon's palatable message for Southeast Asia.
Could Cambodia’s New Prime Minister Release Theary Seng?
By Luke Hunt
With a new administration in office, the family of the imprisoned Khmer-American lawyer hope for her freedom.
Indonesian President Inaugurates Southeast Asia’s First High-speed Railway
By Sebastian Strangio
The $7.3 billion project connects the cities of Jakarta and Bandung, which lie along one of the world's most congested travel corridors.
Vietnam Sentences Environmental Advocate to 3 Years Prison
By Sebastian Strangio
Hoang Thi Minh Hong is the fifth climate activist to be sentenced to a lengthy prison term on tax-related charges over the past two years.
TikTok Says it Regrets Indonesia’s Decision to Ban E-commerce Sales on Social Media Platforms
By Edna Tarigan and Niniek Karmini
Indonesia banned goods transactions on social media platforms such as TikTok, accusing vendors of predatory pricing.
Anwar Ibrahim’s Triad of Critical Challenges
By M. Bakri Musa
The Malaysian prime minister is hoping that by tackling one challenge – corruption – he can make inroads into the other two.
Philippines Will Toughen South China Sea Stance, Admiral Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos' comments come two days after the Philippine Coast Guard removed a barrier that Chinese ships had installed at the disputed Scarborough Shoal.
Cambodia To Block Release of Chinese Cyber-Scam Film
By Sebastian Strangio
The Ministry of Culture claims that “No More Bets," which has topped the box office in China, could damage the country's reputation.