CIL Research Fellow Dr. Su Wai Mon Invited as a Subject Matter Expert to Speak on the Protection of Critical Underwater Infrastructure at the Maritime Security Conference organized by the ADMM PLUS Expert Working Group on Maritime Security, in Bohol Philippines 21-22 October 2025

Su delivered a presentation on “Protection of Critical Underwater Infrastructure (CUI): Challenges and the Way Forward for ASEAN,” where she discussed the relevant UNCLOS provisions governing submarine cables and pipelines, and highlighted the existing legal and enforcement challenges. She underscored the need for effective implementation of Article 113 of UNCLOS, including the criminalization of intentional damage to submarine cables. Su emphasized the growing importance of securing such infrastructure for ASEAN member states, particularly as the region seeks to enhance connectivity and energy security through the expansion of communication cables and the development of submarine power cable networks under the ASEAN Power Grid initiative. She also outlined recent CUI protection initiatives by the EU and NATO, identifying best practices from which ASEAN can draw and highlighting opportunities for practical cooperation among ASEAN member States and with key partners in the wider Indo-Pacific.