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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.
Where Are Indonesia’s Women Leaders?
By Sharyn Davies
With the election over, Indonesia gears up to celebrate women's day. It's a timely reminder of how far women in leadership have to go in the nation.
Vietnam and Australia Announce Long-Awaited Diplomatic Upgrade
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement of the two nations' Comprehensive Strategic Partnership followed the end of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit yesterday.
What on Earth Do Indonesians Think About Democracy?
By David Hutt
Making sense of a 2023 Pew survey that showed majority support for representative democracy, autocracy, and rule by the military.
How Will Chinese Investors Navigate Indonesia’s Post-election Risks?
By Ahmad Syarif
Chinese firms, which have established good relations with President Joko Widodo's cabinet, are quietly putting out feelers ahead of the changeover of administration.
10 Years After It Vanished, Will Malaysia Restart the Search for MH370?
By Eileen Ng
The Malaysian Airlines flight disappeared a decade ago and was never found. Here's what we know about one of aviation's biggest mysteries.
Singapore Says Swift Is Mine, Upsetting Its Neighbors
By Thanapat Pekanan
Taylor Swift is playing six concerts in Singapore. That’s causing discontent in other Southeast Asia nations, which missed out.
Vietnam Opens Trial in $12.5 Billion Corruption Case
By Sebastian Strangio
Truong My Lan, the head of a Ho Chi Minh City-based real estate firm, faces charges, along with 84 associates and alleged accomplices.
Philippine Legislators Mull ‘Economic Charter Change’
By Mong Palatino
Political divisions are opening up over a plan to overhaul the 1987 Constitution to allow more foreign ownership in local industries.
Singapore’s PM Defends Taylor Swift Exclusivity Arrangement
By Rod McGuirk
Lee Hsien Loong did not reveal the cost of the deal, which was paid for from a government fund established to rebuild tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chinese and Philippine Coast Guard Vessels Again Collide in Contested Waters
By Sebastian Strangio
The reported collision came as the maritime disputes dominated discussions at a regional summit in Australia.
What Do We Mean When We Talk About Southeast Asia’s Demographics ‘Crisis’?
By David Hutt
The nations of the region are all experiencing shrinking workforces and rising life expectancy – in some cases at the same time.
Thai Court Acquits Former PM Yingluck Shinawatra Over Government Funds
By Sebastian Strangio
Yingluck, who served as prime minister from 2011 to 2014, is benefiting from the reconciliation between the Pheu Thai Party and the country's conservative establishment.