The ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict has emerged as the primary geopolitical concern in Southeast Asia, overtaking the long-standing South China Sea dispute. A survey by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute’s Asean Studies Centre, involving 1,994 participants from the region, revealed this shift in priority. With more than 40 percent of Southeast Asia's population being Muslim, primarily residing in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, the conflict resonates deeply within these communities.
Countries in Southeast Asia have exhibited varied responses to the conflict. Singapore and the Philippines swiftly condemned Hamas' attacks on Israel, whereas Indonesia and Malaysia expressed solidarity with the Palestinians. These reactions highlight the divisive nature of the conflict within the region. The survey identified that the Israel-Gaza war was not only a significant concern for governments but also influenced domestic politics in Muslim-majority nations.
Despite its geographical distance from Southeast Asia, the conflict's impact is profound. In Singapore, where approximately 15 percent of the population is Muslim, the conflict has been marked as a top concern for government focus. The South China Sea dispute was ranked as the second most pressing issue by respondents, followed by the Russia-Ukraine war and global scam operations.
The varied stances of Asean nations on the Israel-Gaza conflict were acknowledged in a statement by Asean foreign ministers. This diversity of opinions underscores the complex political landscape in the region. The survey aimed to capture the views and concerns of Southeast Asians on various geopolitical issues, with the Israel-Gaza conflict emerging as a significant topic.
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