A sea in focus

The Malaysia-Vietnam upgrade sends a strong signal of shared priorities as both sides recognise that a fragmented Asean only benefits those who wish to dominate the South China Sea. The move to lift Malaysia to the top-tier of Vietnam's partnerships – an eight-strong group that also includes the US, Russia, India, Japan and France – fits well into Hanoi's broader diplomatic strategy

- Rajaram Panda

Countries across the globe have started recalibrating their foreign policy priorities ahead of a second Donald Trump administration in the US and the unpredictability that stems from his statements, many of which are controversial. This rebooting is manifested more in the Indo-Pacific region as there are many hotspots, necessitating the countries in the region to reposition their priorities.

The region that is destined to hog the limelight is the South China Sea. This is seen as a major flashpoint as there are many Asian countries which have contesting claims to the areas that fall within their Exclusive Economic Zones. In contrast, China claims its sovereignty almost in its entirety. There lies the danger as Beijing's muscle-flexing threats and activities have unnerved the smaller Asian claimant nations.

As an insurance to such possible escalation of tensions and potential conflict, Vietnamese Communist Party chief To Lam visited Malaysia in late November 2024 during which both sides pledged to deepen their cooperation on the South China Sea amid rising maritime tensions between Beijing and Manila.

Both sides upgraded diplomatic ties and elevated bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in a clear step towards easing tensions over the competing territorial claims in the waterway.

The move also signals an accelerating realignment of power in South-east Asia. This could lead to a more united front from claimant countries in the overarching maritime dispute with China. Analysts speculate that Trump's return signals stormier waters for Beijing in the South China Sea.

Beijing has alleged that the US-Philippine task force is fanning the flames in the South China Sea. As tensions continue to rise in the area, Beijing calls for friendly talks, which in effect means that others must accept its terms. China's envoy has told the Association for South East Asian Nations that alliances with the US mar peace and stability.