RSIS brought experts together to discuss the “Regional Maritime Security Outlook 2019” on 23 January 2019. Organised by the Maritime Security Programme of the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS) at RSIS, the conference provided a platform for speakers and participants to exchange views on the maritime security challenges facing Southeast Asia in the coming year.

The panel discussions provided an in-depth analysis of developments in the Indo-Pacific region and the evolving maritime strategies and priorities of maritime powers in the region, notably, the United States, India, Japan, Australia and China. Speakers from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam presented their perspectives on how their respective countries navigate the shifting maritime balance of power in the region.

Some of the other key issues discussed at the conference included the evolving concept of the “Indo-Pacific”, rising great power competition in the maritime domain, the importance of maintaining a rules-based regional order, and growing uncertainties and challenges brought about by technological advancements.

Participants attending the conference included academics, researchers and representatives from think tanks and various regional and international institutions. Also in attendance were several International Liaison Officers from the Information Fusion Centre (IFC), a regional Maritime Security (MARSEC) centre hosted by the Republic of Singapore Navy to facilitate information sharing and collaboration among its regional partners with a view to enhancing MARSEC.