• ASEAN foreign ministers express concern for Myanmar’s crisis.
• Indonesia emphasizes the need for coordinated help from member states.
• Foreign Minister Sugiono calls for peace and dialogue in Myanmar.
• The Myanmar conflict threatens to spill over into regional security issues.

ASEAN Ministers Call for Unity to Address Myanmar Crisis

ASEAN Nations are increasingly vocal about the alarming situation in Myanmar, underscoring the need for peace and collaboration among members. At the recent 58th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) held in Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, conveyed that all attending ministers shared a profound concern for Myanmar’s stability and wellbeing. “Regarding Myanmar, we want peace in the country,” Sugiono commented. The sentiment among the ASEAN foreign ministers emphasized unity in addressing the ongoing crisis, with their collective resolve to prioritize aid that could be rendered by fellow ASEAN members. Crucially, Sugiono posed the question, “How can we, each country, help?” indicating a strong desire for coordinated action.

Indonesia Pursues Dialogue for Myanmar’s Stability

In January 2025, during a diplomatic discussion on Myanmar at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to fostering dialogue aimed at resolving the critical political situation. This remains pivotal, considering the humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing conflict. Expressing Indonesia’s dedication, he said, “Indonesia is always committed to supporting the creation of a conducive situation and a safe space for dialogue in Myanmar.” The focus on dialogue is not just about political stability; it’s also about addressing the broader ramifications the crisis could have on the surrounding region.

Regional Security Threatened by Myanmar’s Internal Conflict

Moreover, the protracted conflict in Myanmar, which erupted following the military coup in 2021, poses additional risks beyond mere political instability. Sugiono warned that this internal strife has unleashed threats that could easily spill over into neighboring countries, particularly through the rise of transnational crime and an alarming increase in opium production. The growing concerns were clear during his statements; it’s evident that without substantial intervention, both the humanitarian and regional security situations could deteriorate further. Thus, ASEAN’s role, as highlighted in previous discussions, must evolve to safeguard not only Myanmar but also to manage the complexities of security across Southeast Asia.

In summary, ASEAN nations stand united in their commitment to address the crisis in Myanmar, calling for peace and collaboration among member states. Indonesia is at the forefront, advocating for dialogue and support for Myanmar amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges. The urgency of the situation is magnified by regional security risks, necessitating a coordinated response from all ASEAN members to successfully navigate this complex geopolitical landscape.