With Malaysia set to assume the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, there are concerns about how effectively they will navigate the diverse interests of member states while upholding the consensus-based approach of the organization. Some skeptics suggest that Malaysia’s evolving positions on issues like the Israeli-Gaza war and their deepening ties with China could potentially strain ASEAN’s unity.
The growing rivalry between the U.S. and China has further complicated matters, revealing a lack of cohesion within ASEAN. Variations in member states’ alignments with either the U.S. or China have been highlighted in a recent survey, showing a division within the bloc.
The conflicting dynamics between the economic benefits of China’s investments and the security concerns related to U.S. partnerships have created challenges for ASEAN in addressing key issues like the South China Sea disputes. The ongoing struggle to establish a Code of Conduct for the region reflects the difficulties in reaching consensus among members and managing China’s regional ambitions.
Disunity is not limited to regional security issues but also extends to addressing the crisis in Myanmar. The existing Five-Point Consensus has shown limited progress, indicating the need for a reevaluation of approaches to the situation amidst escalating conflicts.
The root of these challenges lies in ASEAN’s principles of non-interference and consensus decision-making, which have hindered swift responses to critical issues. To overcome these obstacles, a reevaluation of the bloc’s dependencies on external powers is necessary to achieve true independence and strengthen regional cooperation.
Malaysia’s proposed strategies for ASEAN in 2025 aim to enhance regional value chains, boost economic fundamentals, and promote restructuring for economic resilience. While these initiatives may seem cautious, they address fundamental issues that contribute to ASEAN’s inefficiencies in addressing major regional challenges.
The concept of resilience in ASEAN is not new, as historical approaches have emphasized regional cooperation and coordination to withstand outside influences. Strengthening supply chain resilience and bridging developmental gaps among member states are crucial steps in enhancing regional stability and unity.
However, achieving these goals will require concerted effort and diplomacy by Malaysia to rally support among ASEAN members and address internal weaknesses. By fostering greater cooperation and addressing disparities within the bloc, ASEAN can fortify its resilience and unity in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.