They warn that the rising strategic importance of the strait underscores the need for stronger cooperation among Asean nations to safeguard regional sovereignty and stability in one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Asean and Middle East geopolitical expert Dr Abdolreza Alami said any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would inevitably redirect global attention towards South-East Asia and Strait of Malacca. “The reason is clear: about 30% of global trade and over 80% of oil imports for countries such as China and Japan pass through this strait,” he said. “In a situation where the importance of the Strait of Malacca is increasing, the only way to preserve the sovereignty and interests of regional countries is to strengthen collective cooperation,” he said. “At the moment, Asean countries approach maritime security individually.

Source: The Star March 12, 2026 08:40 UTC