Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a dynamic and diverse region at the heart of the Indo-Pacific, playing a critical role in global economic growth, strategic competition, and demographic transformation. It is also central to major conversations on maritime security, democratic governance, infrastructure development, climate resilience, and the future of global supply chains. The United States and its partners increasingly recognize Southeast Asia’s strategic importance, and CSIS research helps shape informed, forward-looking policy toward this vital region.

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Domestic Politics Updates in Malaysia with Asrul Sani

This week, Greg is joined by Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani to discuss the latest updates from Malaysian domestic politics in the aftermath of a “corporate mafia” political scandal. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest, from Myanmar’s leadership changes to tech investments in Thailand.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling, Japhet Quitzon, Lauren Mai, and Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani — April 9, 2026

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Recent Events

Photo: Office of the President of the Philippines, Presidential Communications Office

Photo: Office of the President of the Philippines, Presidential Communications Office

Inaugural Manila Strategy Forum

September 9 – 10, 2025
Hosted by Southeast Asia Program
See all events on Southeast Asia

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Experts

Gregory B. Poling

Gregory B. Poling

Director and Senior Fellow, Southeast Asia Program and Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative
Photo: CSIS

Kathryn Paik

Deputy Director and Senior Fellow, Australia Chair
Harrison Prétat

Harrison Prétat

Deputy Director and Fellow, Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative

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Southeast Asia Radio

Domestic Politics Updates in Malaysia with Asrul Sani

This week, Greg is joined by Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani to discuss the latest updates from Malaysian domestic politics in the aftermath of a “corporate mafia” political scandal. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest, from Myanmar’s leadership changes to tech investments in Thailand.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling, Japhet Quitzon, Lauren Mai, and Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani — April 9, 2026

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio
Southeast Asia Radio

Pacific Airwaves - Investment, Influence, and Power Politics

John and Andreyka discuss the U.S.–Pacific Investment Summit, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau’s travel throughout the region, and domestic politics across the Pacific. 

Podcast Episode by John Augé and Andreyka Natalegawa — April 1, 2026

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio

Plugging into Reality: The ASEAN Power Grid

Without functioning power systems, clear rules, and credible institutions, the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) risks becoming another regional ambition that never fully materializes.

Blog Post by Syahpati Alfatarah — March 30, 2026

Southeast Asia Radio

Laos National Assembly Outcomes with Murray Hiebert

This week, Greg and Elina are joined by Murray Hiebert to unpack the latest from Laos’ National Assembly and the country’s future direction. Patal and Japhet cover the latest from the region, from energy crises to Thai politics.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling, Japhet Quitzon, Murray Hiebert, and Elina Noor — March 26, 2026

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio

The Latest on Southeast Asia: Regional Tariff Turmoil Continues

Malaysian trade minister Johari Abdul Ghani declared on March 15 that his country’s Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States has been rendered “null and void” following the U.S. Supreme Court’s February 20 decision striking down the Trump administration’s worldwide tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. 

Blog Post by Japhet Quitzon and Gregory B. Poling — March 19, 2026

Southeast Asia Radio

Border War, Scam Centers, and Cambodian Politics

This week, Greg is joined by Sophal Ear to discuss Cambodian domestic politics and the Hun Manet government’s push against scam centers. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest in the region, from government turmoil in Malaysia to airstrikes in Myanmar. 

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling, Japhet Quitzon, Lauren Mai, and Japhet Quitzon — March 13, 2026

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio