Inter-state tensions in Southeast Asia

H2 History - syllabus 9174, 2027

Why Southeast Asian states quarrelled over Preah Vihear, Sabah, Malaysia and water, and how these tensions damaged and then shaped regional cooperation and security.

• Why tensions arose between Southeast Asian states

  Tensions arose from colonial borders, rival territorial claims, historical animosities, national interests, the Cold War and resources. Most disputes combined several causes.

• Konfrontasi, 1963-1966

  Indonesia opposed the creation of Malaysia with a campaign of raids and subversion. It ended when Suharto replaced Sukarno, and the reconciliation helped create ASEAN.

• The dispute over Sabah

  The Philippines claimed Sabah through the rights of the Sultan of Sulu. The dispute strained relations with Malaysia and twice disrupted regional cooperation.

• The dispute over Preah Vihear

  Thailand and Cambodia both claimed an ancient temple on their border. The International Court of Justice gave it to Cambodia in 1962, but the dispute fuelled lasting hostility.

• The Singapore-Malaysia water dispute

  Singapore depended on water from Johor under agreements guaranteed at separation. Disputes over price and supply made water a source of tension and pushed Singapore towards self-sufficiency.

• Consequences for regional cooperation and security

  Tensions wrecked early regional groupings, but managing them also pushed states towards ASEAN and its habits of restraint.

• Put it together: Map the tensions

  Choose a dispute and identify what drove it.