US and China compete for AI supply chain and governance alignment in Southeast Asia

The US and China are pressuring Southeast Asian nations to choose between competing AI ecosystems, specifically the US-led 'Pax Silica' supply chain and China's 'World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation' (Waico). This development challenges the region's long-standing policy of non-alignment as both powers seek to secure technological spheres of influence. It remains uncertain whether ASEAN members can maintain a unified stance or if individual states will be forced to bifurcate their digital infrastructure.