GEOPOLITICAL Advances
In a media conference on Tuesday, Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin outlined a number of pressing issues that he will be discussing with his ASEAN counterparts in light of the dynamic political landscape.  ,
These include establishing a humanitarian relief committee to deal with organic disasters brought on by climate change, improving regional security, and advancing the country’s military supply chain.
Malaysia is currently leading ASEAN this time.  ,
Regarding maritime security, Mr. Khaled warned against regional militarization and urged nations with overlapping claims to solve problems diplomatically.  ,
There is a need for everyone to assure freedom of navigation, adhere to international laws, and make an effort not to make this region a superpower-friendly environment, he added.
Southeast Asia faces many challenges, particularly with conflicts rising between China and the United States, said spectators.
Member states have found themselves veering off in a variety of guidelines, putting strain on efforts to come to a discussion on political issues.
Mr. Khaled made the claim earlier this month that ASEAN’s centrality, particularly in the South China Sea, is “very essential,” stressing the idea that the group should continue to play a major role in local cooperation and diplomacy.
The only way to overcome any difficulties that are confronting this area and the rest of the world is through this, he continued.
The world is in” a really remarkable period of advances” with ongoing issues, and how some relationships are breaking down while new people are coming up, said Ms Sharon Seah, representative of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute’s ASEAN Studies Centre.
Southeast Asia, for example, has to maintain its relationship with the US under the uncertain Trump presidency.  ,
According to Ms. Seah,” I believe a very reasonable and logical assessment is required.”  ,