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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.
Did One of Indonesia’s Top Cops Just Evade Justice?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
Ferdy Sambo, the former head of the police's internal affairs division, this week evaded the death sentence for the high-profile murder of his aide-de-camp last year.
Philippine President Suspends 22 Land Reclamation Projects in Manila Bay After US Airs Concerns
By Jim Gomez
Marcos's order came after the United States expressed public concern over environmental damage from the projects and the involvement of a U.S.-blacklisted Chinese company.
Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party Welcomes New Parties Into Potential Governing Coalition
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite the new recruits, the party faces some difficult choices in reaching the majority that it needs in the House of Representatives.
Social Media and the Fight For Political Influence in Southeast Asia
By Fitriani and Muhammad Habib
The use of digital communications platforms has transformed the region's politics – both for good and for ill.
Joint South China Sea Patrols Could Begin in 2023, Philippine Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement comes at a time of increased Chinese assertiveness in disputed waters.
Harvest of Duds: What Cluster Munitions in Laos Can Teach Ukraine
By Sribala Subramanian
Unexploded cluster munitions in Laos are a reality check for Ukraine.
Indonesia Delays Launch of China-backed High-Speed Railway
By Sebastian Strangio
The soft launch of the railway, Southeast Asia's first high-speed line, has been pushed back from August 18 until early September.
Philippines Summons Chinese Ambassador Over Water Cannon Incident
By Sebastian Strangio
This is the second time this year that Huang has been summoned following stand-offs in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal.
Pheu Thai, Bhumjaithai Agree to Form Thailand’s Next Government
By Sebastian Strangio
The pact between the two parties, which came in second and third in May's general election, could spell an end to Thailand's protracted post-election deadlock.
Cambodia’s King Officially Appoints Hun Manet Prime Minister
By Sebastian Strangio
The 45-year-old son of long-serving Prime Minister Hun Sen will take office on August 22, pending a parliamentary vote of confidence.
Manila Bay Reclamation Under Review Over Environmental and China Concerns
By Mong Palatino
The U.S. embassy in Manila has raised concerns about the involvement of a blacklisted Chinese firm in the ongoing projects.
Philippines Blasts China For ‘Dangerous Maneuvers’ Near Disputed Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
The Philippine Coast Guard claims that a Chinese vessel used a high-powered water cannon in order to prevent the resupply of the Philippine forces stationed on Second Thomas Shoal.