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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.
In Cambodia, Foreigners Cannot Own Land. Or Can They?
By David Hutt
There are signs of growing tensions between the country's private sector and its rentier political elite.
Thai Cabinet Approves Draft Law on Marriage Equality
By Sebastian Strangio
If the law is passed by Parliament next month, Thailand will become the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.
Philippines, US Launch Joint Maritime And Air Patrols
By Sebastian Strangio
The long-expected announcement comes at a time of growing tension in contested parts of the South China Sea.
It Is Time For the Thai Authorities to Step Up Their Strategic Communication
By Tita Sanglee
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's first few months in office have been marred by a series of avoidable missteps.
Indonesia’s Refugees Are Just in Transit. What Happens If the Boats Keep Coming?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The past week has seen a new wave of Rohingya arrivals from the refugee camps of southeastern Bangladesh.
Myanmar’s NUG Needs To Win the Peace
By David Hutt
As the collapse of the military junta begins to seem possible, attention turns to what might be established in its place.
Vietnamese TikToker Faces Cambodia Entry Ban Over Angkor Video
By Sebastian Strangio
While minor, the incident showed how disputes over Southeast Asian culture and cuisine are often infused with nationalistic meaning.
What Vietnam Can Learn from the Stalemate in Ukraine
By Khang Vu
The stagnant state of the conflict is likely to make Hanoi even warier of relying on its security partnership with Washington.
Philippines Seeks Greater Regional Cooperation on South China Sea Disputes
By Sebastian Strangio
President Marcos said that his administration has reached out to Malaysia and Vietnam at a time of growing friction in contested waters.
Are We There Yet? Indonesia’s Huge EV Challenge
By Mailinda Eka Yuniza and Jonathan Abram Dewanto
Indonesia wants to increase its use of EVs but the cost of rolling out public charging stations is just one challenge.
Thai Nationals Evacuated From Conflict Zone in Myanmar’s Shan State
By Sebastian Strangio
The Thais were reportedly victims of human trafficking rescued from online scam centers in Laukkai, in northern Shan State.
Where Does Ganjar Pranowo Stand on Indonesia’s Foreign Policy?
By Noto Suoneto
The PDI-P candidate has laid out a platform that suggests a good deal of continuity with the approach of President Joko Widodo.