US-China Tensions Emerge as Malaysia Advocates for Dialogue and Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific

During the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, United States defense secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a speech that an expert characterized as an attempt to create division between China and the ASEAN nations. The expert noted that the speech employed Cold War-era rhetoric and a confrontational approach, which is unlikely to resonate with the countries in the region.

In his address, Hegseth called on Asia-Pacific countries to increase their military spending to 5% of their GDP. This was presented as a measure to counter perceived threats from China, particularly in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

Following the US speech, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, representing the current ASEAN chairmanship, cautioned against bloc confrontation. He emphasized the importance of resolving the South China Sea issue through dialogue rather than confrontation.

Da Wei, director of the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University, criticized the US accusations against China, stating they reflected a highly confrontational mindset. He argued that this approach is not conducive to improving current China-US relations, especially given ongoing trade negotiations.

Da Wei further expressed the view that the US attempt to divide China and the Asia-Pacific countries would be unsuccessful. He highlighted the existing strong foundation of cooperation and relationships between regional countries and China, suggesting that provocative remarks from the US would not significantly alter this dynamic.

In a subsequent speech, Anwar Ibrahim warned against the dangers of major powers attempting to divide the world into exclusive zones of control, which often leaves smaller nations without a voice. He stated Malaysia's opposition to spheres of influence, asserting that stability is achieved through inclusive participation in shaping the global order.

Anwar also advocated for a diplomatic approach to the South China Sea issue, emphasizing steady, principled diplomacy and the importance of restraint, dialogue, and preserving regional stability.