ASEAN Urged to Maintain Centrality Amid South China Sea Tensions

Amidst the complex geopolitical landscape marked by the increasing influence of major powers in the South China Sea, there are strong calls for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to maintain its "centrality" in the region. This appeal is critically important for ensuring regional peace and stability and upholding ASEAN's independent diplomatic principles. The South China Sea is a strategically vital maritime area fraught with complex territorial disputes involving multiple claimants. In recent years, the presence of major powers in this sea has grown, shifting the regional balance of power. Under these circumstances, the ability of ASEAN to maintain its distinct role and influence in the region is being tested. Maintaining ASEAN's centrality implies that regional countries can lead the framework for regional cooperation based on their own will, without being swayed by external pressures. This forms the cornerstone of ASEAN's long-standing diplomatic approach, which emphasizes dialogue and cooperation. However, as competition among major powers intensifies, it cannot be ruled out that ASEAN member states may adopt different stances due to their respective national interests and security concerns. Therefore, maintaining a consistent posture for ASEAN as a whole and preserving regional solidarity are key to substantively guaranteeing its centrality. The response to this challenge will be a crucial litmus test for securing long-term stability and prosperity not only for ASEAN but also for each country in the region, including Indonesia.