Kuala Lampur, Sept. 10 -- SEPTEMBER 10 - Asean is not at war all across the region, invariably, between member states.

This has been the case since 1979. There are border conflicts but no wars between main capitals.

Yet Southeast Asia cannot assume that the absence of war means the absence of insecurity.

Indeed, the string of disasters and emergencies across maritime Southeast Asia in recent days should serve as a warning.

A fiery maritime incident near Palawan, volcanic eruptions at Anak Krakatau, forest and peatland fires, and the return of transboundary haze all point towards the delicate nature of the region.

None constitutes a war. None involves invading armies. None requires missiles or fighter aircraft.

Yet each can kill, dis...