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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.
Nate Thayer, Dead at 62, and Stories That Still Resonate
By Luke Hunt
Among his many scoops, Thayer's work also foreshadowed the rapid growth of Chinese influence in Cambodia.
Thailand’s Prayut Changes Party, Says Willing to Remain PM
By Sebastian Strangio
The leader has officially joined the United Thai Nation Party, in the hope of making an impression at this year's election.
Malaysia’s Anwar Winds Up First Overseas Visit as Prime Minister
By Sebastian Strangio
The leader's two-day state visit to Indonesia was shot through with personal and political resonances.
With High Hopes, Thailand Welcomes Chinese Tourists’ Return
By Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul and Tied McLeod Ji
In 2019, before the pandemic, around 11 million Chinese visited Thailand each year.
Why Did Myanmar’s Junta Grant Wirathu a National Award?
By Sebastian Strangio
Last week, the ultra-nationalist monk was granted the title of "Thiri Pyanchi," an award recognizing “outstanding work for the good of the Union of Myanmar."
Philippine Military Chief Replaced by Retiring General
By Jim Gomez
The government did not provide any explanation for the replacement of Lt. Gen. Bartolome Bacarro, who was supposed to serve until August 2025.
Boat Carrying 184 Rohingya Refugees Lands in Western Indonesia
By Sebastian Strangio
The leaky wooden vessel is just the latest to reach the shores of Aceh, as more and more refugees undertake the dangerous ocean crossings.
Thailand Says COVID-19 Tests Not Needed From Chinese Tourists
By Sebastian Strangio
Thai officials are projecting that 5 million Chinese nationals will visit in 2023, buoying the recovery of the country's tourism sector.
The Philippines’ New Year Airport Meltdown
By Mong Palatino
The start of 2023 should have been triumphant for President Marcos. Instead, domestic and international attention was monopolized by the chaos unfolding at the country's airports.
Behind the ‘Dramatic Increase’ in Deadly Rohingya Sea Voyages
By Parvez Uddin Chowdhury
Given the hardships Rohingya face in the refugee camps in Bangladesh, there is no mystery why many are entrusting their lives to unscrupulous human traffickers.
Imprisoned Former Malaysian PM Turns to UN in Bid for Freedom
By Sebastian Strangio
Lawyers for Najib Razak have filed a petition with the U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, claiming "rushed justice."
Philippines, China Agree on Measures to Manage Maritime Disputes
By Sebastian Strangio
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Xi Jinping agreed to restart joint oil and gas exploration and set up a direct channel of communication on South China Sea issues.