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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.
Cambodian Opposition Leader Sentenced to 27 Years Imprisonment
By Sebastian Strangio
Kem Sokha, the former head of the banned Cambodia National Rescue Party, has also been banned indefinitely from voting or running for office.
Vietnam’s Parliament Selects Vo Van Thuong as New President
By Sebastian Strangio
The 52-year-old Politburo member replaces Nguyen Xuan Phuc, who was forced to step down in January in connection with a series of high-profile corruption scandals.
Malaysia’s Anwar Voices Concern About Myanmar Refugee Crisis
By Sebastian Strangio
The Malaysian leader claimed that 200,000 Myanmar nationals have now sought refuge in his country.
Steel Sharpens Steel: Remembering Nate Thayer
By Peter Maguire
Many have recalled the foreign correspondent's interview with Khmer Rouge leader Pol Pot. Fewer have remembered his most significant and meaningful work.
Foreign Firms Still Aiding Aviation Fuel Shipments to Myanmar Military
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite international sanctions, shipments of aviation fuel continue to reach the country, according to a new report.
Party Policies, Factional Politics, and the 2023 Election in Thailand
By Punchada Sirivunnabood
While the country's parties are crafting new populist pitches to Thai voters, factional politics still reigns supreme.
China, Myanmar Have Resumed Work on Railway Project, Report Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Work on the long-planned Muse-Kyaukphyu line is once again inching forward, but construction is likely many years off.
Malaysian PM Anwar to Visit the Philippines This Week
By Sebastian Strangio
The two-day state visit will round out the newly appointed leader's diplomatic tour of Malaysia's immediate neighbors.
Why Vietnam’s UN Abstention on Ukraine Was a Rational Move
By Khang Vu
The country’s domestic political structure emphasizes continuity in foreign policy, and changes its stance only when there is a clear benefit in doing so.
Vietnam’s National Assembly Set to Confirm New President
By Sebastian Strangio
The reported candidate is Vo Van Thuong, the youngest member on the Communist Party's Politburo.
Broadening the US-Philippines Alliance: EDCA Sites Are Just the Beginning
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Widening the aperture of collaboration can help meet evolving needs and respond to a more competitive strategic environment.
Malaysia’s Anwar Unveils First Budget, Aiming to Aid Poor
By Sebastian Strangio
Stronger than expected growth last year has allowed Anwar Ibrahim to give the poor a leg-up, while introducing measures to reduce Malaysia's national debt.