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Dr. Kuik Cheng- Chwee Professor and Head of Asian Studies at the National University of Malaysia, took centre stage in the webinar to unravel the complexities of Southeast Asia's position amidst the intensifying US-China rivalry. With his expertise in international relations and Southeast Asian geopolitics, Dr Kuik offered a nuanced perspective on how these nations employ the strategic concept of "hedging" to secure their interests and navigate the choppy waters of great power competition.

At the heart of Dr. Kuik's analysis lay the understanding of hedging as a crucial tool for smaller countries like those in Southeast Asia. By maintaining open channels with the US and China, these nations avoid overdependence on any single power. This approach allows them to maintain strategic autonomy, delicately balancing the influence of each superpower and maximizing their economic opportunities. Dr Kuik highlighted how hedging empowers Southeast Asia to trade and invest with both parties, ensuring they are not isolated from critical markets and resources.

However, the discussion shifted to a more complex terrain as Dr. Kuik delved into the potential implications of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) for Southeast Asia. While acknowledging the framework's potential to enhance trade and investment, foster deeper regional economic cooperation, and counterweight China's Belt and Road Initiative, Dr Kuik didn't shy away from outlining the inherent challenge, offering a clear-eyed assessment of its complexities. The limited scope of the IPEF compared to its predecessor, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), was identified as a concern, potentially limiting its economic impact. Additionally, the long-term commitment of the US to the framework remains shrouded in uncertainty, raising anxieties about its sustainability. Perhaps the most critical challenge highlighted by Dr. Kuik was the delicate balancing act required to manage relationships with both the US and China. Participation in the IPEF could be perceived as siding with the US, potentially straining relations with China and jeopardizing strategic partnerships.

Dr. Kuik's concluding remarks emphasized the need for a nuanced and adaptable approach for Southeast Asian nations. He stressed the importance of crafting well-honed hedging strategies that capitalize on the benefits of initiatives like the IPEF while mitigating potential risks and maintaining cordial relations with all major players. The success of such strategies, he argued, hinges on factors like the commitment of key stakeholders, the agility of regional policies, and the ability to navigate geopolitical dynamics with foresight and pragmatism. Ultimately, Dr. Kuik underscored the crucial role of continued engagement and cooperation in shaping a stable and prosperous future for the Indo-Pacific region, a future where all stakeholders can thrive.

By examining the complexities of hedging and the potential impact of the IPEF, Dr. Kuik's webinar provided valuable insights into the strategic choices facing Southeast Asia. His expertise illuminated the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the US-China rivalry, leaving the audience with a deeper understanding of the delicate balancing act these nations must perform to ensure their security and economic well-being in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

This event report was prepared by Avani Akash, NIICE Intern