The recent Israel-Gaza conflict has emerged as the top geopolitical concern in Southeast Asia, surpassing even the long-standing South China Sea dispute. This shift in focus reflects the significant influence of the war on domestic politics within the region, particularly in Muslim-majority countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. According to the State of Southeast 2024 Survey conducted by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute's Asean Studies Centre, the conflict has sparked divisive views among the 1,994 respondents from across the region.
Southeast Asia is home to a substantial Muslim population, with over 40 percent of its inhabitants identifying as Muslims. The majority reside in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, where the Israel-Gaza conflict has deeply resonated. Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have expressed solidarity with the Palestinians, reflecting their populations' sentiments. In contrast, Singapore and the Philippines swiftly condemned Hamas' attacks on Israel, showcasing a divergence in regional responses.
The survey revealed that the Israel-Gaza conflict is not only a significant concern but also the second most pressing issue for Southeast Asian respondents, after the South China Sea dispute. This concern has overshadowed other global issues such as the Russia-Ukraine war and global scam operations, which tied for third place in terms of regional worry. Despite its geographical distance from Southeast Asia, the conflict's impact on regional politics cannot be understated.
In Singapore, where Muslims make up approximately 15 percent of the population, the Israel-Gaza war has influenced governmental priorities. The conflict's prominence as a geopolitical issue underscores its widespread resonance across Southeast Asia. The survey results highlight the profound effect of international conflicts on domestic politics within the region, particularly in countries with significant Muslim populations.
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