COMMENT | The recent address delivered by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference has generated considerable attention within the realm of global geopolitics.

His pointed remarks regarding European allies, particularly concerning mass migration, freedom of expression, and religious freedoms, indicate a notable transformation in US foreign policy under the administration of President Donald Trump.

Vance’s focus on national security and sovereignty highlights the shifting priorities of the US, which may carry profound consequences for Malaysia and the Asean region.

As the chair of Asean, Malaysia must critically assess the ramifications of this speech on national and international security while also formulating strategies that adeptly respond to these evolving dynamics.