Extremists will exploit South-east Asia defence gaps

Significance

The quotations refer to the IS-linked Maute group which took control of parts of Marawi City last month. The attack renewed South-east Asian concern about the regional terrorist threat.

Impacts

• South-east Asian countries will need to invest more in maritime security capacity, but available funds could be limited.
• Increased naval security will see more strenuous customs checks, potentially slowing shipping operations and tourism.
• The Indonesian military’s role in domestic politics will grow as a by-product of the current counterterrorism requirements.
• An end-June reshuffle of Malaysia’s police force leadership could interfere with counterterrorism efforts.
• Regional governments may need to step up domestic counter-radicalisation efforts.