USA07 April, 20261 min read
Southeast Asia Names Trump US Leadership Top Geopolitical Concern
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About 52% identify US leadership under Trump as top geopolitical concern. Global scam operations cited as major concern by about half of respondents.
US Leadership Tops Concerns
A majority of Southeast Asian respondents named US leadership under President Donald Trump as their region's top geopolitical concern for the first time. Approximately 52 percent identified Trump’s US as their greatest geopolitical worry, surpassing South China Sea aggression. Economic insecurities predominantly shaped views, with 43.4 percent citing US sanctions and tariffs.
Trust in the United States declined from 47.2 percent last year to 44.0 percent. Japan remained the most trusted major power at 65.6 percent.
China Overtakes the US as Preferred Superpower
More respondents — 52 percent — said they would prefer China as ASEAN's strategic partner, reversing the 2025 result. China was perceived as the most influential political power, chosen by 40.0 percent. Singapore was identified as the leading contributor in tackling key regional challenges by 31.3 percent of respondents.
Demand for US to Respect International Law
38.5 percent said the US should place greater emphasis on respecting international law and institutions. Economic concerns overwhelmingly shaped public views on the US. 60 percent cited climate change and extreme weather events as the most pressing challenge.