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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.
Vietnam and China Announce Major Upgrade in Relations During Xi Visit
By Khang Vu
Hanoi's decision to join Beijing's "community of common destiny" is consistent with the country's longstanding policy of assurance toward its northern neighbor.
Prabowo Subianto Opens Up Significant Lead in Latest Indonesian Polls
By Sebastian Strangio
Since appointing President Joko Widodo's son as his running-mate in October, the former general's popularity has surged.
Indonesia’s Volcanoes Are Famous, But Is There a Way to Make Them Safer?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The eruption of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra on December 3 claimed the lives of 23 people.
Is Myanmar’s Civil War Pushing the Country Toward Fragmentation?
By Kyaw Hsan Hlaing
Resistance forces now face the challenge of building an ethnically inclusive and democratic state, something that no government in Myanmar has ever achieved.
Myanmar Military, Resistance Alliance Participate in China-Brokered Talks
By Sebastian Strangio
A spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry hailed the "positive results" of the talks, but a lasting peace is unlikely.
Finding a Fix for Indonesia’s Data Protection Problems
By Arif Perdana and Saru Arifin
Addressing data breaches and government surveillance misuse requires a balanced approach that respects national security and individual privacy.
Philippine President Vows to Defend Territory After Latest Maritime Clash
By Sebastian Strangio
In two separate incidents over the weekend, Chinese vessels collided with and used water cannons against Philippine ships in contested parts of the South China Sea.
US, UK, Canada Sanctions Target Southeast Asian Scam Operations
By Sebastian Strangio
The coordinated sanctions have been imposed on those responsible for major criminal operations in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
Indonesia Announces Visa Waivers In Order To Boost Tourism
By Sebastian Strangio
The country has joined Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia in loosening entry regulations amid the region's sluggish tourism recovery.
China’s Leader Xi Jinping to Visit Vietnam Next Week
By Sebastian Strangio
The trip comes on the heels of the Vietnamese government's significant diplomatic upgrades with the United States and Japan.
John McBeth, Asia’s Longest Serving Foreign Correspondent, Dies at 79
By Luke Hunt
McBeth was a standard bearer for big stories, honest and fair reportage.
Indonesians and Malaysians Keep Gaza in Their Prayers
By Sribala Subramanian
For Southeast Asia's Muslims, support for Palestine is rooted in national identity.