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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.
Indonesian Parliament Passes Emergency Jobs Regulation
By Sebastian Strangio
The regulation, which intends to make Indonesia a more attractive destination for foreign investment, has been staunchly opposed by unions and environmental groups.
How the Indonesian Lion Air Crash Brought Down a US Legal Empire
By Aisyah Llewellyn
In early 2020, the families of the Lion Air crash victims won a multi-million dollar legal settlement in a U.S. court – but the promised money never arrived.
Philippines’ Marcos Defends Closer Security Relations With Washington
By Sebastian Strangio
The rapid warming of relations with the U.S. has prompted warnings from Beijing, and domestic political pushback.
Cambodia Arrests Opposition Activists for Posts About Country’s King
By Sebastian Strangio
The activists, who are reportedly close to opposition leader Kem Sokha, had criticized the government's treatment of King Norodom Sihamoni.
Singapore Court Suspends Death Row Lawyer For Five Years
By Sebastian Strangio
M. Ravi has been barred from practicing law for five years for accusing the attorney-general of being "overzealous" in his prosecution of a death row client.
Thailand’s Long and Bumpy Road to Nuclear Energy Adoption
By Tita Sanglee
Nuclear power has the potential to resolve the country's energy security concerns, but there are a number of obstacles to its adoption.
Thai PM Dissolves Parliament, Paving Way For May Election
By Sebastian Strangio
The polls will once again see a showdown between the allies of exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the country's conservative establishment.
UN Participating in Pilot Rohingya Repatriation Project, Despite Safety Concerns
By Sebastian Strangio
A leaked email from the U.N. resident coordinator in Myanmar reveals that U.N. boats were used to transport junta officials to Bangladesh last week.
Should Myanmar Be Declared a Failed State?
By Luke Hunt
There is mounting evidence that the military administration has lost its hold on the country.
Indonesia’s Jokowi Restores Citizenship to Political Exiles
By Sebastian Strangio
The policy is part of a recent government push to recognize past episodes of human rights abuses committed by the state.
Cambodia Celebrates Return of ‘Priceless’ Stolen Artifacts
By Sopheng Cheang
The returned items included important Hindu and Buddhist statues, as well as ancient jewelry from the once-mighty empire of Angkor.
Malaysian Official Says EU Regulation ‘Discrimination’ Against Small Farmers
By Sebastian Strangio
The regulation, which could severely limit the country's palm oil exports to European nations, has been strongly opposed by Kuala Lumpur.