Region
Southeast Asia
Malaysia’s State Elections Are Not a Litmus Test for PM Anwar’s Unity Government
By Rahul Mishra
Less than a year since the last general election, the country's political parties are gearing up for another round of electoral battle across six states.
Malaysia Threatens Prison for Possession of LGBTQ-Themed Swatch Watches
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban comes in the midst of a conservative culture war that has targeted the country's gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community.
Cambodia Unveils Youthful New Cabinet Ahead of Power Transition
By Sebastian Strangio
As expected, the line-up of ministers, who will be sworn in along with Prime Minister Hun Manet on August 22, includes many close relations of high-ranking CPP officials.
How Will China’s Relations With Cambodia Fare Under PM Hun Manet?
By Chhengpor Aun
Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Cambodia this weekend in order to secure the support of the country’s more youthful leadership.
Did One of Indonesia’s Top Cops Just Evade Justice?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
Ferdy Sambo, the former head of the police's internal affairs division, this week evaded the death sentence for the high-profile murder of his aide-de-camp last year.
More Purpose, Fewer Platitudes: The Philippines’ Defense Diplomacy Under Marcos
By Justin Baquisal
Last week's water cannon incident underscores the hard limits of engagement with China – and the need for the Philippines’ to build up its military capability.
Philippine President Suspends 22 Land Reclamation Projects in Manila Bay After US Airs Concerns
By Jim Gomez
Marcos's order came after the United States expressed public concern over environmental damage from the projects and the involvement of a U.S.-blacklisted Chinese company.
China’s EV Export Boom Is Bringing Southeast Asia Into Beijing’s Orbit
By Christopher Vassallo
Growing automobile trade with Southeast Asia has all the makings of a “circular” economy that will deepen regional integration.
Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party Welcomes New Parties Into Potential Governing Coalition
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite the new recruits, the party faces some difficult choices in reaching the majority that it needs in the House of Representatives.
Social Media and the Fight For Political Influence in Southeast Asia
By Fitriani and Muhammad Habib
The use of digital communications platforms has transformed the region's politics – both for good and for ill.
Joint South China Sea Patrols Could Begin in 2023, Philippine Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement comes at a time of increased Chinese assertiveness in disputed waters.
US President Biden Says He Will Visit Vietnam ‘Shortly’
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement raises the likelihood that the two countries are getting ready to announce a major upgrade in their diplomatic relationship.