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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.
Cambodia’s Turn to Raise Eyebrows Over Infrastructure Projects
By Luke Hunt
Up to $30 billion in financing is potentially on the table – most of it from China.
US to Secure Access to New Philippine Military Facilities: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The move, which is expected to be announced this week, is the latest sign of the rapid advancement in bilateral relations under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Myanmar Junta Invited to ASEAN Meeting on Maritime Security
By Sebastian Strangio
Next month's ADMM-Plus meeting on maritime security will be co-chaired by Thailand and the United States.
There Is No Such Thing as ASEAN Neutrality
By David Hutt
Despite its claims to the contrary, the Southeast Asian bloc is intervening in Myanmar's crisis – just not effectively.
Indonesia’s Vicious Cycle: Terrorist Convicts Making a Comeback?
By Andi Raihanah Ashar
Despite the government's deradicalization programs, a small but alarming number of terrorist convicts has reoffended after their release from prison.
Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim Makes State Visit to Singapore
By Sebastian Strangio
The one-day visit comes amid a period of stagnation in relations between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Philippines Refuses to Cooperate With ‘Unacceptable’ ICC Drug War Investigation
By Sebastian Strangio
Last week, the International Criminal Court ordered the restarting of its investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte's violent "war on drugs."
Marcos and the Philippines at Davos
By Mong Palatino
Since taking office in July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has undertaken eight trips abroad, with a ninth to come next month.
Australian Returns 9 Antique Buddha Statues to Thailand
By Sebastian Strangio
The Canberra resident Murray Upton said his father obtained the statues while working as a railways engineer in the south of Thailand in 1911.
Opium Cultivation Jumps in Myanmar Amid Post-Coup Crisis, UN Says
By Sebastian Strangio
As the formal economy has atrophied, black markets and illicit trades have expanded their reach.
Indonesia Stirs the Pot on WTO Reforms
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
A bold move by Jakarta may give WTO reforms the shakeup they need.
How Does The Myanmar Crisis End?
By David Hutt
The military junta's possible handover of power to a quasi-civilian "transition council" could create complications for the country's resistance forces.