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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.
Hun Sen Announces Free Tickets for Southeast Asian Games
By Luke Hunt
The Cambodian leader has also said that broadcast rights will also be free, ending a standoff with Thailand.
Tears, Anger as Indonesia Loses U20 World Cup, Faces FIFA Sanctions
By Niniek Karmini and Graham Dunbar
Indonesians are in an uproar after rejection of the Israeli team cost their country its chance to host a global football tournament.
What Does China Expect From Malaysia Relations Under Anwar?
By Nian Peng
China-Malaysia relations are going to see good opportunities with Anwar in office. However, it is not safe to assume that relations will develop smoothly.
Vietnamese, Chinese Vessels in Close South China Sea Encounter
By Sebastian Strangio
According to navigation data, a Vietnamese Fisheries Surveillance vessel and Chinese Coast Guard ship came within 10 meters of each other.
Myanmar Military Chief Vows to Defeat Anti-Junta Resistance
By Sebastian Strangio
In a speech marking Armed Forces Day, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing gave air to the military’s self-justifying mythology.
Cambodia and Thailand: A Tale of Two Elections
By Luke Hunt
The two countries have both been criticized in recent years for violating democratic norms, but that’s about where the similarities end.
US Imposes New Sanctions on Military-Ruled Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The latest round of sanctions aims to cut off the Myanmar military's access to aviation fuel, following a series of deadly airstrikes on civilian populations.
Thai PM Launches Election Campaign, Pledges ‘New Political Climate’
By Sebastian Strangio
Launching the United Thai Nation Party's campaign, the former general promised to "move beyond" the conflict that has gripped Thai politics over the past two decades.
Who Is Vietnam’s Gorbachev?
By David Hutt
For some supporters of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the last party secretary of the Soviet Union offers a cautionary tale.
Laos Takes Another Step Forward on Controversial Mekong Dam
By Sebastian Strangio
The China-backed Pak Lay hydropower project is just one of nine dams that the Lao government has planned for the Mekong River.
Jokowi, Ganjar, and Prabowo: A Look at Indonesia’s Pre-Election Landscape
By Virdika Rizky Utama
Ganjar Pranowo and Prabowo Subianto are currently leading the polls ahead of next year's election. But will they participate as opponents or partners?
China, Philippines Open Bilateral ‘Consultative’ Talks in Manila
By Sebastian Strangio
Chinese officials took the opportunity to voice their opposition to a recent expansion of the U.S. military presence in the Philippine archipelago.