Summary
The Middle East disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz back in February 2026 have provided real-word test on ASEAN's energy security arrangements, shedding light on how the region's shipping, freight, crude and LNG flows, and refined product markets perform under pressure.
This briefing paper examines lessons from the energy crisis and their implications for ASEAN’s energy resilience. It highlights how disruptions to maritime routes, shipping, insurance, energy prices and infrastructure can affect energy availability, economic activity and public finances across the region. The paper reviews ASEAN Member States’ responses, including demand management, supply diversification, stockpiling and regional coordination. Looking ahead, it calls for ASEAN to complement conventional preparedness with resilience stress testing to assess compound disruptions, identify critical vulnerabilities, test response mechanisms and strengthen the region’s ability to maintain reliable and affordable energy services during future shocks.