[SDD] ASEAN’s fight against terror needs unity, not optics. Here’s why

 Written by Newsroom

ASEAN's anti-terrorism

Introduction 

On 16 June 2025, the annual Special Defence Dialogue commenced at the Shang-Ri La Hotel in Singapore. Delegates from across the region gathered to address pressing security threats, namely terrorism and proxy wars. The vast majority of delegates illustrated a laser focus on tackling the issue of terrorism, some citing how their countries have experienced the disastrous consequences of terrorism. This is a highly astute and acute focus, given the callously violent and downright genocidal actions of the Burmese junta in Southeast Asia, as well as the recent bombing in Russia, which killed 40 people. These 2 examples highlight just how prevalent terrorism is, even to nations who may perceive themselves as secure and resistant to terrorism, re-emphasising the significance of discussing terrorism. 

What is terrorism, really? 

At the core of the debate, a fundamental question persists: what exactly constitutes terrorism? Many have initiated the discussion on terrorism by expressing the importance of finding a common ground on the definition of terrorism itself. As the delegate of the United Kingdom pointed out, “We have observed a lack of agreement on the common definition of terrorism, globally.” 

This lack of consensus leads to inconsistent classifications. When questioned on the United States’ stand on whether the Houthis were considered a terrorist group, the US delegate responded, “We must find a definition of terrorism that is agreed upon unanimously, not just solely what the US believes.” This quote further emphasises the importance of having a shared notion of what exactly terrorism is in the first place. 

Solutions proposed by ASEAN member countries and possible collaborations 

All ASEAN member countries have agreed to take a stern stance against all forms of terrorism, a great move. Many have gone on to further suggest solutions to tackle terrorism, targeting the source of terrorist groups’ funding, as well as tracking and identifying potential terrorists to take targeted and effective action. One such solution would be that of the delegate of Malaysia, who suggests utilising the capabilities of artificial intelligence to identify potential terrorists based on their digital patterns as well as consumption of online content. While this solution recognises the need for preventive measures against terrorism, it poses great privacy concerns due to the usage of personal data, as well as concerns regarding the accuracy and accountability of decisions made by the AI model. 

On a larger scale, Singapore has suggested having a third-party organisation to oversee state-funded terrorism on a global stage. However, issues regarding rising global tensions that inevitably affect this possible solution could not be ignored. In this case, ASEAN should remain united and navigate international turbulence with a consistent stance. 

China vs US 

On a more regional level, China has spearheaded a proposal for a charter, known as the Inter Regional Counter-terrorist Charter (IRCC), that implements a system to allow for the sharing of intelligence of terrorist groups as well as a research authority which provides regional support and expertise, putting an explicit focus on surveillance and preventive measures. This is a bright move in the right direction, as it recognises the need for unity among ASEAN nations to effectively combat terrorism. Given how terrorist groups often operate across borders, such systems that allow for the sharing of information across borders would greatly benefit ASEAN nations. Additionally, the research authority segment of this charter would support ASEAN nations that may have weaker intelligence capabilities. 

However, some delegates have raised concerns about the IRCC. Some argue that entrusting such critical national information to China is risky, as many delegates doubt Chinese intentions. Many believe that this is merely a political ploy for China to further expand its political influence over the Southeast Asian region. In response, the ministers of China rebutted that countries join on a voluntary basis, and that “China guarantees that information will be shared equitably and appropriately to take effective counter-terrorist measures”, adding that this is a “new era of ASEAN-China cooperation”, and that this is “China’s global vision to build a community with a shared future for mankind through major power diplomacy”. 

Are we seeing possibilities of global-scale cooperation? Yes, but it definitely seems to be difficult with tensions between superpowers. However, with aligned goals within ASEAN members, Newsroom is surely optimistic about implementing shared policies between ASEAN countries to combat terrorism as a whole.

Written by Nay Myo Win, Liu Haoyue, Raynor Leo Kay Hon