Phnom Penh (FN), Aug. 19 – Southeast Asia’s journey to independence is as diverse as the region itself, with each country’s history unfolding at its own pace. The Philippines leads the way, having declared independence from Spain back in 1898. As of 2024, the nation celebrates 126 years of self-rule. Not far behind are Indonesia and Viet Nam, both marking 79 years of independence since their declarations in 1945.

Cambodia gained independence from France on 9 November 1953. Singapore, which became sovereign in 1965, is celebrating 59 years of independence in 2024. Timor-Leste, the youngest in the region, has just 22 years under its belt since gaining independence in 2002. These anniversaries highlight the ongoing journey towards self-determination, showcasing the strength and resilience of Southeast Asian countries as they continue to shape their own futures.

This article was originally published on Seasia Stats.
=FRESH NEWS