Blog
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.
Should a Man Face Trial Alone at Guantanamo Bay While His 2 Co-Accused Return Home?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
Despite their alleged involvement in terrorist attacks including the 2002 Bali bombings, Mohammed Farik Bin Amin and Mohammed Nazir Bin Lep could be heading back to Malaysia early next year.
US Warns It Will Defend Philippines After South China Sea Collisions
By Sebastian Strangio
Washington has once again affirmed that it has a treaty obligation to defend the Philippines against any armed attack in the contested waterway.
Thai Protesters Demand an End to Gaza Bombing
By Prem Singh Gill
While the Thai public may be sympathetic to the plight of the Palestinians, Bangkok has maintained a studiously neutral position on the Israel-Hamas war.
In Hun Manet’s Cambodia, It Is the Perception of Change That Matters
By David Hutt
The country's new prime minister is bound to the system created by his father. But for some foreign governments, it is enough that there is a new face at the top.
Explaining Indonesia’s Political Stability
By Edbert Gani Suryahudaya
The country's democratic durability has been underpinned by pragmatic collaboration between elites. This has come at a cost.
Prabowo Maintains Narrow Lead in Indonesian Presidential Polls
By Sebastian Strangio
The February 14 is shaping up as a competition to see who can most successfully claim the legacy of President Joko Widodo.
Chinese, Philippine Vessels Collide Near Contested Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
While minor, the two collisions demonstrate the dangers inherent in Beijing’s campaign of escalation in the South China Sea.
Gibran in the Spotlight: Where Jokowi’s Legacy Meets Prabowo’s Ambition
By Virdika Rizky Utama
President Joko Widodo's son will run in next year's election as Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto's vice presidential running-mate. What are the implications for Indonesian democracy?
Strategic Nominations and the Future Direction of Indonesia’s Ruling PDIP
By Virdika Rizky Utama
As next year's election approaches, there are signs that the PDIP establishment is distancing itself from President Joko Widodo.
Former Jakarta Governor Officially Registers for Indonesian Presidential Election
By Sebastian Strangio
The official election registration period for February 14 poll opened today, and will run until October 25.
Chinese Leader’s Visit Reflects Vietnam’s ‘Omnidirectional’ Foreign Policy
By Khang Vu
China's paramount leader Xi Jinping will reportedly soon make a state visit to Vietnam, just weeks after U.S. President Joe Biden.
Cambodian Court Sentences Opposition Figure to 3 Years Prison
By Sebastian Strangio
The sentence came just weeks after Thach Setha was sentenced to 18 months prison for allegedly passing fraudulent checks.