Story perspectives

ASEAN Survey: 52% Favor China Over US Alignment

4/7/2026

Summary

Southeast Asia's Preference

A survey by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute indicates that 52% of Southeast Asian respondents prefer aligning with China over the US, while 48% favor the US.
Conducted from January 5 to February 20, 2026, the poll included 2,008 participants from all 11 ASEAN member states.
Indonesia (80.1%) and Malaysia (68%) showed significant support for China, while the Philippines (76.8%) preferred the US.
Despite leaning toward China, over 55.6% of respondents expect improved relations with China in the next three years.

Summary

ASEAN's Effectiveness Challenge

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) faces growing concerns about effectiveness amid rising external pressures, with 34.7% calling it slow and ineffective.
Yet many respondents still view ASEAN as crucial for regional resilience.
In the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, 38.9% believe ASEAN has taken active steps, while 13.5% say it has not fully utilized resources.
Respondents urge resolving long-standing issues and boosting intra-regional trade.

History

Historical Context

Established on August 8, 1967, ASEAN was formed by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand to promote regional stability amid Cold War tensions and the threat of communism. Over time, ASEAN has evolved into a key platform for economic cooperation and diplomacy, yet recent surveys indicate a shift in regional preferences, with 52% favoring China over the US, challenging ASEAN's unity and effectiveness.

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Southeast Asia's Preference

A survey by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute indicates that 52% of Southeast Asian respondents prefer aligning with China over the US, while 48% favor the US.
Conducted from January 5 to February 20, 2026, the poll included 2,008 participants from all 11 ASEAN member states.
Indonesia (80.1%) and Malaysia (68%) showed significant support for China, while the Philippines (76.8%) preferred the US.
Despite leaning toward China, over 55.6% of respondents expect improved relations with China in the next three years.

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