On 15 May 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Institute of Security and International Studies (ISIS), Chulalongkorn University, organized a webinar titled "Maritime Security Scenarios in the Straits of Hormuz, Taiwan, and Malacca: Strategic Geopolitical and Geo-economic Implications for Thailand." The seminar, with over 300 registered participants, aimed to exchange perspectives on rising tensions in key and strategic maritime areas and to prepare Thailand for potential impacts on its supply chain and economic stability.

 

Mrs. Sirilak Niyom, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, delivered opening remarks emphasizing that the uncertainties surrounding global maritime chokepoints, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, are no longer distant matters for Thailand. As crucial shipping routes, they inevitably impact energy security, trade and the continuity of global and domestic supply chains. The Deputy Permanent Secretary also highlighted the necessity for Thailand to closely monitor and assess geopolitical and geo-economic developments in key global maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz, Taiwan and the Strait of Malacca, and raised pivotal questions regarding how Thailand, given its strategic location within ASEAN, should maintain its strategic balance to enhance resilience and readiness against future challenges.

 

The webinar featured distinguished panelists, including Dr. Sorasich Swangsilp from the Institute of Security and International Studies (ISIS), Chulalongkorn University; Assistant Professor Dr. Pailin Kittisereechai from Kasetsart University; Assistant Professor Dr. Kittipos Phuttivanich from Ramkhamhaeng University; and Dr. Nat Tharnpanich from Chulalongkorn University. The speakers provided comprehensive analyses on maritime security developments in these key chokepoints, as well as the geopolitical and geo-economic impacts they could pose to Thailand and the region amidst intense major power competition and global supply chain vulnerabilities. They also offered recommendations on Thailand's optimal strategic positioning.

 

This webinar marks another significant step in fostering knowledge and raising awareness among the public, private and academic sectors, as well as the general public. The insights will serve to further policy implementation and enhance Thailand’s preparedness for future shifts in the international landscape.