Kuala Lampur, May 3 -- Japan is not merely a participant in the Indo-Pacific - it is steadily positioning itself as one of the principal architects of its evolving rules-based order.

In recent years, Tokyo has moved beyond rhetorical support for norms and institutions to actively enhancing its Indo-Pacific strategy in ways that are economic, diplomatic, and increasingly strategic.

At the heart of Japan's approach is the concept of a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" (FOIP), first articulated under the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2006.

This vision emphasises freedom of navigation, respect for sovereignty, connectivity, and adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

What is changin...