Joanne Lin Weiling, co-coordinator of the ASEAN Studies Centre at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, made the statement based on findings from the State of Southeast Asia 2025 survey. The survey highlights tensions in the South China Sea as the region’s top geopolitical concern.
“Institutionally, ASEAN is robust and has performed well so far. However, geopolitically, it faces significant hurdles,” Lin said during a seminar titled "Navigating a Fragmented Multipolar World: Can ASEAN Continue to Deliver a Balancing Act?," hosted by the Habibie Center on Wednesday.
She noted that several strategic issues continue to challenge ASEAN’s internal unity and coherence.
One key flashpoint is the South China Sea, where ASEAN member states hold differing views. Lin pointed out that the Philippines has taken a more assertive position, in contrast to the more cautious stance adopted by others.
“There are also differing views on other issues, like the Myanmar crisis, where ASEAN member states take various approaches on how best to engage with stakeholders — with some favoring more interaction with the military government,” she added.
External conflicts have also tested ASEAN’s unity. For instance, the Israel–Hamas conflict has made it difficult for the bloc to reach consensus, even in drafting a joint statement.
When asked how ASEAN can strengthen its resilience and demonstrate its relevance, Lin said survey respondents emphasized the importance of boosting intra-regional trade and investment.
The survey also revealed a strong preference for ASEAN-led solutions, with respondents expressing greater confidence in regional mechanisms than in external alternatives.
In light of rising global protectionism and nationalism, the survey further showed support for accelerating regional integration and deepening cooperation with like-minded partners beyond ASEAN.
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Reporter: Katriana
Editor: Anton Santoso
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