Pakistan’s attempt to become a full dialogue partner of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is encountering strong resistance from several member states, notably Indonesia and Singapore, despite Malaysia’s support, reports said on Monday.

Islamabad’s push is seen as part of a broader strategy to internationalise its issues with India through multilateral forums — a tactic New Delhi firmly opposes. ASEAN, which operates on consensus, appears divided on Pakistan’s bid.

While Malaysia, the current ASEAN chair, and China-aligned Cambodia are expected to support the move, Indonesia and Singapore are reportedly siding with India in opposing it. Experts suggest that Beijing may be pressuring Cambodia to back Islamabad’s entry.

Indonesia, despite its large Muslim population, has consistently viewed Pakistan’s Kashmir stance with skepticism and has worked to block anti-India narratives within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). In fact, during recent OIC meetings, Indonesia, along with Egypt and Bahrain, thwarted attempts by Pakistan to insert anti-India language into outcome documents.

Relations between India and Indonesia have grown steadily. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day, notably cancelled a visit to Pakistan while extending his India trip.

India continues to strengthen engagement with ASEAN through its ‘Act East’ and Indo-Pacific strategies. Last month, a visiting Indian parliamentary delegation met ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn in Jakarta. He condemned terrorism and reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to deepening strategic ties with India, particularly in security and counter-terrorism.

ASEAN, formed in 1967, includes 10 members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. India remains a vital partner under ASEAN’s Indo-Pacific outlook and SAGAR vision for regional growth and security.