Region
Southeast Asia
Indonesia Confirms Purchase of Secondhand Jet Fighters From Qatar
By Sebastian Strangio
The fleet of 12 Mirage 2000-5 jets is intended to bridge the air force over until the delivery of a new fleet of French fighters beginning in early 2026.
Cyclone Mocha in Myanmar: Mayhem and Maneuvering
By Naw Theresa
Humanitarian efforts in the wake of Cyclone Mocha have become yet another front in the country's expanding conflict.
Chinese Naval Vessel Begins ‘Goodwill’ Visit to Philippines
By Sebastian Strangio
The three-day visit, the first by the Chinese navy since 2019, comes at a difficult time in relations between Beijing and Manila.
Malaysia Seeking Interpol’s Assistance to Investigate Comedian
By Sebastian Strangio
The New York-based comedian Jocelyn Chia created a social media storm last week when she posted a short clip featuring a joke about Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370.
How New Electoral Rules Shaped the Outcome of Thailand’s Election
By Daniel C. O’Neill and Amanda R. Jaroenpokasap
The changes, which included the shift from a single to a dual ballot system, had a different impact than was generally predicted.
Myanmar Military Restricts Access to Areas Hit by Cyclone Mocha
By Sebastian Strangio
The military's decision closes off the limited access of the U.N. and international aid organizations to around 1 million people affected by the storm.
Philippines’ Investment Fund Bill Draws Criticism
By Mong Palatino
A group of prominent economists claims that the Maharlika Investment Fund will draw much-needed cash away from other parts of government.
Compelled Speech on the March in Cambodia With New ‘Mandatory’ Voting Law
By David Hutt
It is no longer enough to remain silent and keep out of politics. Cambodians are now required to actively affirm the ruling regime – including at the ballot box.
ASEAN’s Cross-Border Digital Payment System Explained
By James Guild
Greater financial integration is good for consumers and travelers, but it won't end Southeast Asia's dependence on the U.S. dollar.
Indonesian Court to Rule on Petition Seeking Change to Electoral System
By Sebastian Strangio
A number of politicians have petitioned the Constitutional Court to change from open-list proportional voting to a closed-list system.
The Changing Nature of the Singaporean Presidency
By Edmund Lim
Since the city-state's independence in 1965, the office has undergone a number of significant evolutions.
Thailand’s Election Body Opens Investigation Into Move Forward Leader
By Sebastian Strangio
The probe will assess whether Pita Limjaroenrat registered for last month’s election knowing that he could be disqualified for the ownership of shares in a defunct media company.