South East Asia faces significant geopolitical challenges, including territorial disputes in the South China Sea, where China’s assertive claims clash with those of several countries like Vietnam and the Philippines. Additionally, the region grapples with the influence of major powers, notably the US and China, creating a delicate balancing act for smaller nations. Internal issues such as political instability, economic disparities, and ethnic tensions further complicate regional cooperation. The rise of non-traditional threats, like terrorism and climate change, adds urgency to collective security efforts, highlighting the need for a cohesive regional strategy to address these multifaceted challenges.