Yogyakarta, May 19, 2025 — A presentation focusing on the intricacy and geopolitical importance of underwater sea cables in Southeast Asia was conducted at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (CESASS UGM). The presentation was conducted by Cameron Regan, an International Relations student at the University of Queensland.
Recent events regarding underwater cable malfunctions in areas such as the South China Sea and Java Sea inspired the presentation’s research focus. Specifically, the political and economic impact of these malfunctions in the Southeast Asian and Indo-Pacific spheres of influence. Underwater fibre optic cable systems provide approximately 95% of the worlds’ internet connectivity, ensuring split-second speed of financial transactions and a functional digital economy worth immeasurable value. This means those states which manufacture and regulate these cables in international waters can manipulate encrypted global communication networks.
The presenter linked this growing realm of instability to the current multi-faceted security dilemma between the US and China and the role of ASEAN in mitigating instances of underwater cable contract and placement disputes. Especially when ASEAN member states’ crucial communication networks are placed in jeopardy.
The presentation was listened to attentively by attendees, who found the topic intriguing and unknown in terms of significance to Southeast Asian geopolitics.