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Abstract
he objectives of this research
are to discuss competing
T theoretical perspectives in
international relations on evolving
geo-strategic matrix in South China Sea;
to explore its implications to the region’s
dynamics; and to recommend prospective
policy for the ASEAN and its member
states in view of the current events in the
South China Sea.
The design of the research is
qualitative because of the nature and
current risk involved in mass data
collection. It combines exploratory
and descriptive method with deductive
approach. It conducts investigations to
seek answers and address the research
questions systematically using the
predefined set of variables (independent
variables and dependent variables) and
assumptions after reviewing pieces of
literature and obtaining pre-study findings
from various research and articles.
It is deduced that evolving geo-
strategic matrix in South China Sea
manifests potential big power competition
in the region with focus on economic and Implications to ASEAN
military power play. These emphatic
actions of China have not only shaped
the geopolitical landscape in the region, Evolving Geo-Strategic Matrix in South China Sea:
but have also driven extra regional powers
who have strategic interests in the area,
particularly the United States, to pivot and
try to contain China. These developments
in the ASEAN maritime domain not only
pose an intricate strategic challenge but
also provide a rare opportunity to the
region, if managed properly. Finally, this D
research recommends that ASEAN
member states should have grit and
confidence to look at the South China
Sea region through the lens of unfolding
possibilities rather than as a limited set
of choices.