Analysts warn Malaysia to navigate sensitive issues at Asean Summit as global rivalries test regional unity.
PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia hosts one of the most consequential Asean Summits in years today, experts warn that Putrajaya must tread carefully through a minefield of diplomatic sensitivities, regional rifts and geopolitical rivalries that could either strengthen or strain the bloc’s unity.
With an unprecedented number of world leaders – including United States President Donald Trump – in attendance, the meeting is set to test Asean’s ability to hold together amid clashing interests over flashpoints such as the Myanmar crisis, South China Sea and the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said Malaysia faces both an opportunity and a challenge in managing expectations as host and chair, especially given the summit’s scale and scrutiny.
“This is the biggest Asean Summit in terms of foreign leaders’ attendance. It shows respect not only for Malaysia’s chairmanship but also for Asean’s growing relevance as a regional and global player,” he said.
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However, Azmi cautioned that the presence of powerful figures such as Trump could risk turning the spotlight away from Asean’s collective agenda.
“We know Trump tends to seek the limelight, but Malaysia could use his influence constructively.
“The real focus should be on advancing regional peace – from Gaza and possibly even Ukraine to the South China Sea – without allowing major powers to divide Asean,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s credibility as a “non-biased player” would be critical in sensitive discussions, citing its past mediation roles in southern Thailand and the Bangsamoro peace process.
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“A successful summit won’t necessarily hinge on declarations but on productive side meetings and quiet diplomacy.
“The real progress happens in informal talks – those side discussions on Gaza or the South China Sea.
“That’s where Malaysia can demonstrate leadership,” Azmi said.
International Islamic University Malaysia international relations expert Assoc Prof Dr
Mohd Yazid Zul Kepli said Malaysia’s leadership would also be tested by divisions that continue to plague the bloc.
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“Asean’s biggest fault lines remain Myanmar and the South China Sea. Some members push for tougher action while others cling to the non-interference principle.
Mohd Yazid said another overlooked source of tension lies in transnational crimes such as cross-border cyber scams and human trafficking networks operating in parts of Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.
“These are transnational crimes that hurt Asean’s credibility. Some governments prefer not to highlight them, but silence risks undermining regional trust,” he said.
He added that Malaysia must also be “extra ready” in managing Trump’s unpredictable presence.
“Trump is emotional and likes to draw attention. Malaysia must be tactful to ensure his presence does not derail discussions or create unnecessary friction. Diplomatic protocol, tone and sequencing will matter greatly,” he said.
On the global stage, Mohd Yazid said Malaysia must tread carefully on emotionally charged issues such as Palestine.
“Malaysia must avoid even the perception of bias – whether in statements, seating or bilateral dealings.
“One careless gesture can undo months of diplomacy,” he said.
Both analysts said the summit’s success will not be measured in headlines or handshakes but in how well Malaysia keeps diplomacy quiet, careful and credible.
