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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.
Indonesia’s Ex-Agriculture Minister Arrested on Accusations of Corruption
By Sebastian Strangio
Syahrul Yasin Limpo, who resigned from his position last week, is the sixth member of President Joko Widodo's cabinet to face graft charges since 2019.
Death Toll of Thai Workers in Israel Attack Rises to 21
By Sebastian Strangio
Thai citizens make up a large number of the foreign nationals who were killed and taken hostage during last weekend's deadly attack.
Indonesia Moots Possible World Cup Bid With Australia, Malaysia, Singapore
By Sebastian Strangio
Saudi Arabia is currently favored to host the soccer tournament in 2034.
Why Did Timor-Leste Sign a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership With China?
By Joao da Cruz Cardoso
For Dili, upgrading relations with China is about giving itself as many options as possible for economic development. It is not about choosing China over Australia.
Indonesia’s Jokowi Calls for Resolution of Israel-Gaza Conflict Along UN Lines
By Sebastian Strangio
The president's call came as the Israeli Defense Force pummeled the Gaza Strip in retaliation for Hamas' weekend attacks on southern Israel.
Myanmar Junta Accused of Bombing Kachin State IDP Camp
By Sebastian Strangio
The Mung Lai Hkyet camp houses around 500 people displaced by military assaults over the past decade.
China’s Xi Jinping Could Visit Vietnam Soon, Report Claims
By Sebastian Strangio
The visit, which could take place later this month or early next, would come after U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to Hanoi last month.
How Southeast Asia Has Responded to the Israel-Hamas Conflict
By Sebastian Strangio
Unsurprisingly, the region's governments have been far from united in their responses to Hamas' surprise attack on southern Israel.
New Netflix Documentary Examines One of Indonesia’s Most Salacious Cases
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The film about the supposed poisoning of socialite Wayan Mirna Salihin raises the question: was a murder even committed?
Thailand’s Mall Shooting Shows That Authorities Must Address Online Black Markets
By Michael Picard
All over the world, a range of new, evolving technologies are disrupting national arms control strategies. The Paragon mall shooting highlighted the deadly results.
Thai Authorities Arrest 4 For Selling Gun to Mall Shooter
By Sebastian Strangio
Since Tuesday's shooting at Siam Paragon mall in Bangkok, Thai authorities have promised to clamp down on online firearm sales.
Philippine Vice President Defends Use of Confidential Funds
By Mong Palatino
Sara Duterte's opponents accuse her of improperly using confidential and intelligence funds, or CIFs, which are not subjected to standard auditing rules.