Southeast Asia Radio
CSIS’ Greg Poling, Japhet Quitzon, and Lauren Mai, joined by Elina Noor, Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, highlight the most important news from Southeast Asia and dive into candid conversations with leading voices on the region and U.S. foreign policy. The podcast covers geopolitics, recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, democracy, and human rights. New episodes are released every other Thursday.
Episodes
Bhumjaithai's First Year in Power with Ken Lohatepanont
On this episode, Greg and Elina are joined by Ken Lohatepanont to discuss Thai domestic politics after Bhumjaithai's first year in power.
Southeast Asia Radio & State of Play Crossover: Is the U.S.-Philippines Alliance Really at a Historic High?
On the sidelines of the Southeast Asia Program's second annual Manila Strategy Forum earlier this month, Greg sat down with Will Todman and Amb. John Negroponte to talk about the U.S.-Philippine alliance.
The Future of EU-Southeast Asia Relations with Max Bergmann
This week, Greg was joined by Max Bergmann to discuss their upcoming report on EU-Southeast Asia coordination under the Trump Administration.
Pacific Airwaves - Votes, Vessels, and Vulnerabilities
John and Monica discuss Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, elections, and other regional developments.
Myanmar’s Path Forward with Morgan Michaels
This week, Greg and Elina were joined by Morgan Michaels to discuss the Myanmar junta government’s recent diplomatic moves, its engagement with ASEAN, and the outlook for the country moving forward.
Cambodia’s Scam Center Ecosystem with Shibani Mahtani
This week, Greg and Elina were joined by Shibani Mahtani to discuss the evolving nature of Cambodia’s scam center ecosystem and its broader implications for the region.
Pacific Airwaves - Missile Tests and Mutual Defense
Andreyka and Monica discuss China's missile test, shifting Pacific security dynamics, and the latest regional developments. This episode was recorded on August 3, 2026.
Sara Duterte’s Impeachment and Philippine Politics with Regine Cabato
This week, Greg is joined by Regine Cabato to cover the latest in Philippine domestic politics, including Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial in the Senate. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest in the region, from Indonesia’s financial outlook to Japanese engagement within the region.
Southeast Asia’s Strategic Alignment Future with Prashanth Parameswaran
This week, Greg and Elina are joined by Prashanth Parameswaran to discuss his new book on the future of Southeast Asia’s strategic alignment amid U.S.-China rivalry. Lauren and Sebastian cover the latest in the region, from Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial to region-wide efforts against illegal drugs.
Southeast Asian Responses to U.S.-China Conflict with Natalie Sambhi and Bich Tran
This week, Greg was joined by Natalie Sambhi and Bich Tran to discuss their new report on the factors that would shape Southeast Asian responses to potential U.S.-China conflict. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest from Vietnam’s bamboo diplomacy to the latest updates on scam centers.
Pacific Airwaves – New Leadership, New Currents
Andreyka and Monica discuss Prime Minister Matthew Wale's foreign policy, ocean governance, and other regional updates. This episode was recorded on June 29, 2026.
Vietnam’s Evolving Foreign Policy with Le Hong Hiep
This week, Greg and Elina were joined by Le Hong Hiep to discuss recent developments in Vietnam’s foreign policy after To Lam’s visits to the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Patal and Japhet cover the latest developments, from corruption investigations in Indonesia and the Philippines to Chinese engagement in the region.
Pacific Airwaves – Elections, Alliances, and Agency
John and Andreyka discuss recent elections, shifting foreign policy dynamics, and evolving regional engagement by the United States, Australia, and China.
Trump-Xi Summit Outcomes for Southeast Asia with Amb. Edgard Kagan
On this episode, Greg and Elina were joined by Amb. Edgard Kagan to discuss what the recent Trump-Xi summit means for Southeast Asia. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest, from Indonesian export controls to Luzon Economic Corridor updates.
Japan’s Southeast Asia Policy with Kristi Govella
This week, Greg and Elina were joined by Kristi Govella to talk about Japan’s foreign policy direction in Southeast Asia under PM Takaichi Sanae. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest, from prisoner releases in Myanmar to joint military exercises in the Philippines.
Indonesia’s Evolving Foreign Policy with Evan Laksmana
This week, Greg and Elina are joined by Evan Laksmana to discuss the direction of Indonesia’s foreign policy. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest from the region, from the Strait of Malacca to scam networks.
Pacific Airwaves – Disruption, Disasters, and Dynamics
John and Monica discuss how the Iran war is affecting the region, recent natural disasters, and domestic political dynamics across the Pacific.
Evolving Southeast Asian Perspectives of the United States with Adrian Ang
This week, Greg and Elina are joined by Dr. Adrian Ang to discuss regional perceptions of the United States in the aftermath of the ongoing conflict with Iran. Lauren and Japhet cover the latest, from Prabowo’s international engagements to regional shifts in biofuel production.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pacific Airwaves - Politics and Power in the Pacific
John and Monica discuss ocean governance, China’s growing influence in the region, and domestic political dynamics across the Pacific.
This episode was recorded on February 24th.
Tariff Ruling and US-ASEAN Trade with Amb. Brian McFeeters
Greg and Elina are joined by Amb. Brian McFeeters to discuss U.S.-ASEAN trade in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s IEEPA ruling and the recently concluded U.S.-Indonesia trade deal. Japhet and Lois cover the latest from the region, from the Board of Peace to Sara Duterte’s 2028 presidential bid.
Indonesia’s Market Turmoil with Mehu Sitepu
Greg and Elina are joined by Mehu Sitepu to discuss the latest updates on Indonesia’s economy, foreign policy, and domestic policy. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region.
Vietnam 14th National Party Congress with Alex Vuving
Greg and Elina are joined by Alex Vuving to discuss the outcomes of Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress.
Election Updates in Myanmar with Nyantha Lin
Greg is joined by Nyantha Lin to discuss the domestic and international implications of the ongoing elections in Myanmar.
Southeast Asia Radio’s Fourth Annual Holiday Special
Greg and Elina answer questions from Southeast Asia Radio’s listeners for 2025’s special holiday episode.
Energy Transitions and Climate Developments in Southeast Asia with Jenny Schuch-Page
Greg and Elina are joined by Jenny Schuch-Page to discuss regional energy transitions and climate developments after COP 30. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from SCS naval drills to multifaceted cooperation from unlikely partners.
Unpacking the CSIS Global Alignment Index with Susannah Patton
Greg and Andreyka are joined by Susannah Patton to discuss the Southeast Asia Program’s upcoming Global Alignment Index report. Japhet and Rocio cover the latest from the region, from updates on U.S.-Cambodia ties to the Philippines assuming the ASEAN chairmanship.
Pacific Airwaves - Rivalry, Resilience, and Regional Unity
Monica and Andreyka discuss great power rivalry in the Pacific, climate change, and domestic politics in Nauru and the Solomon Islands.
Trump at ASEAN with Brian Eyler and Prashanth Parameswaran
Greg and Elina are joined by Prashanth Parameswaran and Brian Eyler to discuss recent summits across the Indo-Pacific, including the ASEAN and East Asia Summits. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from mass scam operations in Cambodia to Myanmar’s upcoming general elections.
Quick Deals, Lasting Dread: Trump 2.0 in Southeast Asia with Greg Poling
Greg and Elina discuss Greg’s section of the recent CSIS compendium, “Navigating Disruption: Ally and Partner Responses to U.S. Foreign Policy.” Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from protests to contaminated shrimp.
Thai Politics Update with Ken Mathis Lohatepanont
Greg and Elina are joined by Ken Mathis Lohatepanont to discuss the latest updates from Thailand, including the new Bhumjaithai-led government, the fate of the Shinawatras, and the snap elections scheduled in 4 months.
Myanmar Conflict Update with Su Mon Thant
Greg and Elina are joined by Su Mon Thant, Asia-Pacific Senior Analyst at ACLED, to discuss current events in Myanmar including the state of the battlefield and the upcoming elections in December.
Pacific Airwaves – Forums, Fishing, and Foreign Investment
Andreyka and John discuss the Pacific Islands Forum, U.S. engagement in the region, and Nauru’s Chinese investment deal.
Malaysia's Foreign and Domestic Policy Landscape with Shahril Hamdan
Greg and Elina are joined by Shahril Hamdan to discuss the most recent developments in Malaysian domestic politics, as well as Malaysia's foreign policy during its ASEAN chair year.
Regional Development Financing with Scott Morris
Greg is joined by Scott Morris, Asian Development Bank Vice President for East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, to discuss the evolving nature of development finance within the region. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from collisions in the South China Sea to Singapore National Day.
Trade Developments in Southeast Asia with Barbara Weisel
Greg and Elina are joined by Barbara Weisel to discuss developments in trade within the region. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from updates on Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment to Laos' engagement with Russia.
Friendship, Freedom and Fractures: Re-Tuning into the Pacific
Monica and John discuss independence movements in New Caledonia and Bougainville, deep sea mining in the Pacific, and regional news and developments.
Foreign Policy and Domestic Politics in Indonesia with Mehu Sitepu
Greg and Elina are joined by Mehu Sitepu to discuss developments in Indonesian foreign policy and domestic politics. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, including the Cambodian conscription law, a new SpaceX project in Vietnam, and critical minerals in Myanmar.
Political Instability in Thailand with Fuadi Pitsuwan
Greg and Elina are joined by Fuadi Pitsuwan to discuss the unfolding domestic situation in Thailand in the aftermath of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leaked phone call with Hun Sen. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from the suspected Chinese national, Alice Guo, infiltrating the Philippines to the latest craze, Labubus.
Echonomics - Asia Emerges from Financial Crisis
In this special episode, listen to the second episode of CSIS’s newest podcast, Echonomic that investigates how past economic events in Asia continue to impact U.S. policy today.
The story of the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis continues in this episode. Hear the “Echonomics”’ guests discuss how the U.S., International Monetary Fund, and global organizations learned from the crisis and why it was, a
Timor Leste’s ASEAN Process with Parker Novak
Greg and Elina are joined by Parker Novak to discuss Timor Leste's ASEAN accession process. Japhet and Rocio cover the latest from the region, from the Indonesian president’s talks with Putin to military agreements between Philippines and Japan.
Echonomics - Asia Engulfed in Financial Crisis
In this special episode, listen to the first episode of CSIS’s newest podcast, Echonomics that investigates how past economic events in Asia continue to impact U.S. policy today.
In 1997, Thailand’s currency collapsed, setting off a currency contagion that spread across Asia and threatened to take down several economies with it. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Siwage Dharma Negara, Caroline Atkinson, and
Summit Outcomes with Prashanth Parameswaran
Greg and Elina are joined by Prashanth Parameswaran to discuss the ASEAN Summit, the ASEAN-GCC-China Joint Summit, and the Shangri-la Dialogue. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from the Thai-Cambodia border skirmish to rising AI investments in ASEAN countries.
Pacific Airwaves: Fragility, Instability, and Growth in the Pacific
Andreyka and John discuss recent developments in New Caledonia, public health, economic turbulence, and more.
Midterm Elections in the Philippines with Aries Arugay
Greg and Elina are joined by Aries Arugay to discuss the Philippines’ midterm elections. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from updates on Myanmar to Cambodian Remembrance Day.
Trump’s First 100 Days with Marc Mealy
Greg and Elina are joined by Marc Mealy to discuss Trump’s first 100 days in office. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from ASEAN free trade with China to Hun Sen’s recent diplomatic visits.
Aftermath of Myanmar Earthquake with Erin Murphy
Greg was joined by Erin Murphy to discuss updates in Myanmar following the earthquake. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from tariff negotiations to the Indonesia-Russia bilateral relationship.
Pacific Airwaves – Tariffs, Diplomacy, and Deep Sea Mining
Andreyka and John discuss tariff responses, diplomatic visits to the Pacific, and other regional developments.
Thailand Update with Ken Mathis Lohatepanont
Greg discusses politics in Thailand with Ken Mathis Lohatepanont. CSIS Southeast Asia Program Interns Gemma and Sophia cover the latest from the region, from Myanmar's earthquake aftermath to Prabowo’s Middle East tour.
USAID Shutdown Impacts with Michael Schiffer
Greg and Elina discuss the impact of shuttering USAID programs in Southeast Asia with Michael Schiffer. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from Pete Hegseth’s visit to the Philippines to Timor Leste’s ASEAN membership bid.
Pacific Airwaves – Continuity and Change in Pacific Politics
Monica and John discuss local constitution amendments, independence talks, Samoan political drama, and more.
Indonesia’s Foreign Policy under Prabowo with Evan Laksmana
Greg and Elina are joined by Evan Laksmana to discuss Indonesia’s foreign policy under Prabowo. Japhet and Gemma cover the latest from the region, from Duterte’s arrest to visa bans for Thai officials.
Vietnam’s “Era of National Rise” with Khang Vu
Greg and Elina talk with Khang Vu. They discuss Vietnam’s bureaucratic reforms and its declaration of an “Era of National Rise.” Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from Ramadan to an update on scam centers in Thailand and Myanmar.
Pacific Airwaves – Aid, Alliances, and Uncertainty
Andreyka welcomes new co-host John Augé to Pacific Airwaves to discuss Trump’s return to the White House, the impact of USAID cuts to the region, the Cook Islands’ cooperative agreements with China, and more.
Biden’s Legacy in Southeast Asia with Henrietta Levin
Greg and Elina are joined by Henrietta Levin to discuss Biden’s legacy in Southeast Asia. Japhet and Lauren cover White Lotus season 3, Sara Duterte’s impeachment, and diplomatic visits in the Philippines and Indonesia.
China’s Myanmar Policy with Yun Sun
This week, Greg and Elina are joined by Yun Sun to discuss China’s policy in Myanmar. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region, from Prabowo’s trips to India and Malaysia to Lunar New Year celebrations across Southeast Asia.
Lim Kimya and the Future of Cambodia with Sophal Ear
Greg is joined by Sophal Ear to discuss Cambodia’s future in the aftermath of the assassination of Lim Kimya. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest energy updates in Southeast Asia and the danger of AI scam calls.
2025 Southeast Asia Forecast with Greg and Elina
Greg and Elina look at what’s coming to the region in 2025. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest on Southeast Asia, from Prabowo’s free meal scheme to Myanmar’s 77th independence anniversary.
Southeast Asia Radio’s Third Annual Holiday Special
Greg and Elina answer questions from Andreyka Natalegawa, Japhet Quitzon, Leon Cao, Lauren Mai, and Monica Sato for this year’s special holiday episode.
The Dutertes vs. the Marcoses – What Comes Next?
Greg and Elina are joined by Camille Elemia to discuss the latest updates in Philippine politics. Japhet and Lauren covers the latest on Southeast Asia, from devastating floods in both Thailand and Malaysia to Vietnam’s ambitious highspeed rail plan.
Trump and Southeast Asia with Brian Eyler and Prashanth Parameswaran
Greg and Elina are joined by Brian Eyler and Prashanth Parameswaran to discuss how President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office will impact Southeast Asia.
Malaysia Assuming ASEAN Chairmanship with Ong Kian Ming
Greg and Elina are joined by Ong Kian Ming to discuss Malaysia's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship. Lauren covers the latest, from regional natural disasters to sanctions on five Singapore-based firms.
Energy Transitions in Southeast Asia
Greg and Elina are joined by Andreyka Natalegawa and Lauren Mai to discuss the Southeast Asia Program’s newest report on climate transitions throughout ASEAN. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest, from the iCon pyramid scheme in Malaysia to Lee family turmoil in Singapore.
2024 ASEAN Summit Outcomes with Susannah Patton
After last week’s ASEAN Summit in Laos, Greg and Elina are joined by Susannah Patton to discuss the key takeaways. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest, from former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s return to politics to how Southeast Asian nations are trying to evacuate their citizens as the Middle East conflict escalates.
Indonesia’s Transition to Prabowo with Ben Bland
Ahead of Prabowo Subianto’s inauguration, Greg and Elina unpack the latest updates from Indonesia with Ben Bland. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest: from Singapore’s former Transport Minister S. Iswaran’s corruption case to Cambodia pulling out of the CLV-DTA project.
The Latest on Myanmar with Jack Myint and Andreyka Natalegawa
Greg unpacks the latest updates from Myanmar with Jack Myint and Andreyka Natalegawa. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region: from the Kanlaon volcano in the Philippines to mpox cases throughout Southeast Asia.
Turmoil in Thailand with Pongkwan “PK” Sawasdipakdi
Greg and Elina unpack the latest political developments in Thailand with Pongkwan “PK” Sawasdipakdi. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest: from Alice Guo’s arrest to Pope Francis’ region-wide visit.
U.S. Regional Engagement with Chris Johnstone and Andreyka Natalegawa
Greg is joined by Chris Johnstone and Andreyka Natalegawa to discuss the implications of Sec. Austin and Sec. Blinken’s recent trips throughout East and Southeast Asia. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest: from the Marcos-Duterte family feud to a series of corruption cases around the region.
Post-Trong Vietnam with Alex Vuving
Greg and Elina unpack the aftermath of Gen. Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong’s passing in Vietnam with Alex Vuving. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest: from the region’s Olympic representation to digital regulation.
Pacific Airwaves - Walking the Balance Beams
Monica and Andreyka discuss the 10th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting, New Zealand’s engagements with the Solomon Islands, U.S.-China competition in Vanuatu, and other domestic and regional developments.
South China Sea Conference Recap with Ely Ratner
This week, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner delivers his remarks from our 14th Annual South China Sea Conference. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region: from delays in Nusantara to updates on POGOs in the Philippines.
Still Dangerous Grounds –South China Sea Updates with Jay Batongbacal
Greg and Elina discuss ongoing tensions in the South China Sea with Jay Batongbacal. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest: from orangutan diplomacy to cyberattacks in Indonesia.
Pacific Airwaves - Powers, Partnerships, and Protest
Monica and Andreyka discuss Vanuatu’s constitutional changes, New Zealand and U.S. engagement with the Pacific Islands, Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Australia and New Zealand, and other domestic and regional developments.
Two Years of SEAR – Q&A Anniversary with Greg and Elina
On the season finale of Southeast Asia Radio Season 2, Greg and Elina answer your questions! Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region.
Political Turmoil in Thailand with Thitinan Pongsudhirak
On the final episode of Southeast Asia Radio Season 2, Greg and Elina discuss the latest developments in Thailand with Thitinan Pongsudhirak. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest from the region.
Pacific Airwaves - Navigating Pacific Perils
Monica and Andreyka discuss the landslide in Papua New Guinea, deadly riots in New Caledonia over electoral reforms, the collapse of Air Vanuatu, Australia’s engagements with the new Solomon Islands government and Tuvalu, and other domestic and regional developments.
Vietnam’s Leadership Shakeup with Murray Hiebert
On this episode of Southeast Asia Radio, Greg chats with Murray Hiebert about recent political developments in Vietnam. Japhet and Lauren cover the latest in the region.
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