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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.
Philippines Military to Provide ‘Unimpeded’ Access to Sea Resources, Defense Chief Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The new "comprehensive archipelagic defense concept" will seek to secure Manila's access to resources lying within its Exclusive Economic Zone, including in the South China Sea.
Thai Constitutional Court Clears MFP Leader of Breaching Election Law
By Sebastian Strangio
Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party, can rejoin Parliament – but more legal challenges loom.
Rohingya Ocean Death Toll Worst in Nearly a Decade, UN Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Deteriorating conditions in the refugee camps of Bangladesh are pushing increasing numbers of people to take their chances on dangerous sea voyages.
Cambodia Microfinance Association Findings Mark Retreat From Poverty Reduction Claims
By David Whitehouse
The country's recent microcredit boom has highlighted the wide gap between the theory of microfinance and its reality.
Philippine President Says He Won’t ‘Lift a Finger’ to Help ICC Probe
By Sebastian Strangio
The International Criminal Court is investigating the extrajudicial killings that occurred on the watch of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Situating the Battle of the Paracel Islands in Modern Vietnam-China Relations
By Khang Vu
Good relations with China have necessitated the downplaying of past conflicts by both countries.
The Philippines Is Exercising Growing Agency on the Taiwan Issue
By Joshua Bernard Espeña
As maritime frictions with China grow, the Marcos administration is becoming more proactive in engaging Taipei.
Myanmar Military Tribunal Sentences Brigadier Generals to Death for Kokang Surrender
By Sebastian Strangio
The sentences come at a time of growing discontent with the leadership of junta chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing.
Philippines Again Condemns ‘Provocative’ Chinese Actions in South China Sea
By Sebastian Strangio
The condemnation came after the Philippine Coast Guard reported another incident in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal on January 12.
Ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir Accuses Government of Prosecuting Its Rivals
By Eileen Ng
The former leader's claims came a week after his eldest son was ordered to hand over information to anti-graft investigators.
Rohingya Refugees and the Shifting Tide in Indonesia
By HuiYin Chuah and Jennifer Vallentine
Aceh’s growing hostility toward Rohingya arrivals proves that international, regional, and federal support is essential for sustainable community-driven responses.
Charter Change Bid Moves Forward in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
A push is afoot to amend the Constitution introduced after the 1986 People Power uprising, a move that is likely to deepen political polarization.