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Chained Laptops Across Southeast Asia

Cyber Libel Laws Hurting ASEAN – Especially the Philippines

October 24, 2026 No Comments

Criminal cyber libel and online defamation laws across Southeast Asia raise concerns about freedom of expression, press freedom, and foreign investment. With particular attention to the Philippines, this analysis examines how criminal penalties, legal disputes, and restrictions on foreign ownership may discourage international businesses and journalists—and why reform could strengthen

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Indonesian sky turned orange due to haze

The Haze

October 20, 2026 No Comments

Indonesian forest and peatland fires have spread hazardous haze across Southeast Asia, disrupting tourism, aviation, agriculture, education, and public health. With economic losses mounting in Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, the recurring crisis exposes weaknesses in regional enforcement and raises urgent questions about ASEAN’s ability to prevent future haze episodes.

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Marcos to Asean

President Marcos Says More Women Are Needed in Political and Executive Positions within ASEAN – We Analyze Current Statistics and Future Likelihoods

September 30, 2026 No Comments

Women remain underrepresented in many ASEAN legislatures and cabinets despite significant differences between member states. President Marcos has called for stronger pathways into political leadership, while political dynasties, party structures, social norms, and weak quotas continue to shape women’s access to power.

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ASEAN AND AI

September 24, 2026 No Comments

Southeast Asia is becoming a major geography of artificial intelligence, with Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines competing for data centers, hyperscaler investment, computing capacity, and greater control over AI development.

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Skin whitening in ASEAN

“DYEING” TO BE WHITE

September 2, 2026 No Comments

Skin whitening is deeply embedded in Southeast Asia’s beauty culture. From affordable creams to cosmetic procedures and glutathione treatments, the pursuit of lighter skin reflects longstanding class ideals, colonial legacies, media influence, and modern social pressures.

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