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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.
Vietnam’s Approach to China: Bamboo Diplomacy With Neo-tributary Characteristics
By Alexander L. Vuving
Vietnam Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong's recent visit to Beijing was meant to assure China, but didn't signal any change in Hanoi's basic approach toward its northern neighbor.
China’s Premier Comes to Cambodia Bearing Gifts
By Sebastian Strangio
The routine nature and broad scope of the agreements signed by Li Keqiang and Hun Sen reflects the closeness of the relationship between Beijing and Phnom Penh.
Unfazed by Scandals, Malaysia’s Grand Old Party Seeks Electoral Victory
By Eileen Ng
Four years after its shock defeat to a progressive multi-ethnic coalition, can UMNO regain its mandate?
Southeast Asian Summits Open Under the Shadow of Ukraine, Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The ASEAN, G-20, and APEC summits will take place in a climate of global tension and growing strategic polarization.
Suspected Chinese Rocket Debris Found in Philippine Waters
By Associated Press
Debris found in two separate locations were likely remnants of a Chinese Long March 5B rocket launched last week from Hainan island.
Will ASEAN Finally Change Its Approach Toward Myanmar?
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's troubles will be at the top of the agenda at this week's summit, but a significant policy shift is unlikely.
Vietnam Introduces 24-Hour Take-Down Requirement for Social Media Platforms
By Sebastian Strangio
The move is the latest in the state's attempts to cleanse the online sphere of "false news" and "anti-state" content.
Why Thailand’s Current Account Returned to Surplus in September
By James Guild
The development, driven by the revival of the tourism sector, suggests that the country is beginning to recover from the pandemic in earnest.
Putin to Skip East Asia Summit, No Certainty for G-20
By Sebastian Strangio
It is looking increasingly likely that the Russian leader will not be present at either summit – at least not physically.
Philippine Police Charge Prison Chief With Killing Popular Broadcaster
By Sebastian Strangio
Gerald Bantag has been accused of masterminding the October 3 shooting of the journalist Percival Mabasa.
ASEAN Struggles on in an Uncertain Age
By Richard Maude
ASEAN is conscious that it is increasingly sidelines amid great power competition. But the organization is slow to change.
Cambodian Dissident Begins Hunger Strike Over Prison Conditions
By Sebastian Strangio
Theary Seng’s stand comes ahead of U.S. President Joe Biden’s visit to Cambodia for this week’s ASEAN summits.