- Bangkok's controversial protesting monk on why he's joined the protests.
- A Crisis Group report warns of instability in Myanmar unless changes are made to the country's first census in more than 30 years (an issue also highlighted in a January Interpreter post). The government says it will continue as planned with the census.
- Georgetown University's David Steinberg explores the possibility of a backlash to economic development in Myanmar.
- Singapore and the Philippines slump below Myanmar on World Press Freedom's 2014 Index.
- Talks will take place in Cambodia today on the deadlock between the ruling party and Sam Rainsy's opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party. Since elections last July, the opposition has boycotted parliament.
- Meanwhile, Phnom Penh's improved relations with Vietnam continue, with a visit by Vietnamese Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and a pledge to increase two-way trade from US$3.5 billion in 2013 to US$5 billion by 2015.
- At least 4.1 million people still displaced three months after Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines, says OCHA.
- The increase in dengue deaths this year in Southeast Asia – up three-fold in Malaysia – continues to cause concern.
- Smart phones installed with 'Flappy Bird', a popular app, are reportedly selling for up to $12,000 after its Vietnamese developer pulled the game last week for being too addictive.
Southeast Asia links: Dengue, Bangkok's protesting monk, press freedom and more
Published 18 Feb 2014
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