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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.
Inflation in Laos Continues to Rise, Reaches 23-Year High
By Sebastian Strangio
While inflation is projected to fall in 2023, there is no quick fix to the country's economic troubles.
Papuan Rebels Take New Zealand Pilot Hostage in Remote Area
By Sebastian Strangio
The West Papua National Liberation Army says it holds Western countries, including New Zealand, responsible for supporting the Indonesian military.
Thailand Tightens Laws on Meth Possession Amid Regional Drug Boom
By Sebastian Strangio
In recent years, Myanmar-based drug syndicates have driven a regional boom in the production of amphetamine-style stimulants.
Philippine Coast Guard to Bolster Its South China Sea Presence
By Sebastian Strangio
The head of the PCG announced that it would increase sea patrols and overflights to defend the country's maritime claims.
Focus on Human Trafficking Shifts From Cambodia to Myanmar
By Luke Hunt
Interpol proves its worth in cross-border rescue operation in the country's east.
What’s a Decent Outcome For Cambodia’s Opposition At the Upcoming Election?
By David Hutt
For a party living under the constant fear of crackdown or dissolution, it might be wise to downplay its chances at the July poll.
ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meet Under Shadow of Myanmar Crisis
By Niniek Karmini
Indonesia is setting up an office of an ASEAN special envoy on Myanmar in Jakarta to spearhead how the bloc deals with the crisis.
Thai Activists Push Opposition Party on Royal Defamation Law
By Sebastian Strangio
Activists from the monarchy reform group Thalu Wang have asked the Pheu Thai Party to abolish Section 112 if it wins this year's election.
Malaysian Anti-Graft Authorities Freeze Opposition Party Accounts
By Sebastian Strangio
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating $70.7 million that was found in the accounts of the political party Bersatu.
The Long Political Afterlife of Megawati Sukarnoputri
By Johannes Nugroho
After battling years of political and sexist attacks, the 75-year-old is hoping to have a decisive impact at Indonesia's upcoming general election.
US, Philippines Agree to Larger American Military Presence
By Jim Gomez
The two sides have agreed to grant the U.S. armed forces access to four more bases under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
Indonesia to Send General on Special Mission to Myanmar, Jokowi Says
By Sebastian Strangio
In an interview this week, President Joko Widodo suggested that the unnamed general would highlight his own country's democratic transition since 1998.