SINGAPORE, April 7 -- The State of South-east Asia 2026 report, published by the Asean Studies Centre at ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute on April 7, indicates a shift in regional alignment preferences. 

According to The Straits Times, for the second time in three years, China has overtaken the United States as the favored superpower among Asean respondents.

In a forced-choice scenario between the two powers, 52 per cent of participants chose China, while 48 per cent opted for the United States. 

This marks a reversal from 2025, when the US held the lead. Previous data shows China first took the lead in 2024 with 50.5 per cent compared to the US at 49.5 per cent.

Despite these leanings, the regional consensus remains focused on...