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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.
Malaysian Court Lifts Stay on Deportation of Myanmar Nationals
By Sebastian Strangio
Rights groups have protested the decision, which they say could expose a group of 114 people to mistreatment on their return.
‘Full Steam Ahead’ for Singapore’s Tuas Port
By Sribala Subramanian
For the wealthy city-state, building a bigger and smarter port is a necessity.
Indonesian Security Forces Responsible for Dozens of Extrajudicial Killings, Rights Group Says
By Sebastian Strangio
In its annual human rights report, the organization KontraS documented 72 cases of unlawful killings by police and military personnel.
Indonesia Summons UN Official Over Criticisms of Revised Criminal Code
By Sebastian Strangio
The move came amid a rash of bad international press about the legal changes, particularly a provision banning sex before marriage.
UN Says Indonesia’s Revised Penal Code to Have Sweeping Rights Impacts
By Sebastian Strangio
The revised code passed by parliament last week is likely to radically reorient the relationship between rulers and ruled.
Great Expectations as Australia and Vietnam Ponder ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’
By Hai Hong Nguyen
An elevation of relations is likely next year, when the two nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. But will it be matched by substantive developments?
US Will Not Replace Ambassador to Myanmar: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
Ambassador Thomas Vajda is set to leave Myanmar this month, after less than two years in the post.
Indonesia Frees Convicted Bali Bomber on Parole
By Sebastian Strangio
Umar Patek has expressed regret for his role in the 2002 attacks, but his parole has been greeted with anger in Australia, which lost 88 citizens in the attack.
Japanese Fighter Jets Visit Philippines for First Time Since 1945
By Sebastian Strangio
The two F-15s took part in a two-week exchange between the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force and the Philippine Air Force.
Taxpayers of Southeast Asia, Arise!
By David Hutt
The region needs a new coterie of taxpayer alliances and NGOs that investigate how taxes are spent.
Thai Political Parties: No Eternal Allies, No Perpetual Enemies
By Tita Sanglee
The country's political landscape is in a state of high flux as it moves toward next year's general election.
How Myanmar’s United Wa State Army Responded to COVID-19
By Yaolong Xian
The country's most powerful armed rebel group has played a prominent role in battling the pandemic in the areas under its control.