In her keynote address at the ISIS Malaysia Forum on Australia and Southeast Asia, Wong said the 10-member bloc should not underestimate its ability to shape norms and expectations for larger powers.

“For five decades, Asean has stood as a pillar of peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia. Let us not underestimate our strength and our power,” she said.

“This moment in our history is an opportunity for Australia and Southeast Asia to recognise that the stability of our region can only be secured through collective responsibility. We must build the region we want, not just accept the region we face.”

Wong outlined five key areas for deeper collaboration – economic integration, resilience-building, defence and security cooperation, development partnerships, and conflict prevention – saying none of the region’s countries could achieve long-term prosperity on its own.

She also affirmed Australia’s commitment to a peaceful, rules-based order, and stressed that no single country should dominate the region.

“We are realistic about China’s objectives and the changing balance of power,” she said, reiterating concern over “destabilising and dangerous conduct” by Chinese vessels targeting Philippine and Vietnamese ships.

“But we do not want a region where might makes right – rule by power alone, forcing outcomes through economic coercion or military muscle,” she said.

On maritime security, she pointed to Australia’s A$60 million (RM167 million) commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships in Southeast Asia, including participation in Asean defence platforms such as the ADMM-Plus.

Wong said Australia’s long-term engagement in the region was not just strategic, but personal.

“Australia must find its security in Asia, not from Asia,” she said, echoing Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese.