- A fascinating and hugely important debate is underway in the Myanmar press between U Myint, a presidential advisor, and Nay Htun Naing, a journalist, that goes to the heart of the discussion of generational divides, elites and non-elites, and the need to bridge societal gaps. Coconuts Yangon explains the debate here (including links to open letters).
- A symbolic appointment? The US has nominated former North Korea envoy Glyn Davies as ambassador to junta-ruled Thailand. Saksith Saiyasombut looked at the announcement for Asian Correspondent.
- The Myanmar Government has hired lobbyists in Washington ahead of its crucial November election.
- The Myanmar armed forces have suffered significant losses in fighting against the Kokang MNDAA: 126 Myanmar troops killed, 359 injured.
- Sebastian Strangio looks at 40 years since the Khmer Rouge took power in Cambodia, here and here.
- Why mercy isn’t inconsistent in Indonesian law. (Thanks Malcolm.)
- A leaked draft of the Thai constitution says generals would receive immunity and the PM could remain unelected.
- Phuong Nguyen argues that Thailand and the US need better communication. Meanwhile, the country’s economic outlook is the worst in 40 years.
- How should Myanmar’s anti-corruption efforts be strengthened? Khaing Sape Saw explores.
- The past week marked 40 years since the fall of Saigon. On Nottingham University’s China Policy Institute blog, Ramses Amer looks at Vietnam-ASEAN relations, James Anderson at Sino-Vietnam relations before and after 1975, and I explore the important role played by the Lao Hmong and Degar-Montagnards. Closer to home, Hugh White wrote about why Australia should remember the Vietnam War.
- Why passing the Bangsamoro Basic Law is an imperative for US-Philippines relations, Zach Abuza explains.
- Aung San Suu Kyi spoke on why the 2015 elections aren't like 1990, her party’s election campaign and why she hasn’t spoken out about the Rohingya.