This study aims to examine the ontological security dilemma of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in relation to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) and the Trilateral Defense Alliance (AUKUS). These U.S.-centric minilateral security institutions limit ASEAN’s central role based on the normative-legal order in the region. The research conducted is based on a constructivist approach, applying ontological security theory and argues that the use of ASEAN’s strategic hedging principles leads to an “ontological security dilemma” within the organization. The shortcomings of the ASEAN hedging concept that creates an “ontological security dilemma” are identified. The research notes that due to disagreements within ASEAN, ontological security is expressed in forms of “fragmented self” in relation to AUKUS, and “marginalized self” due to Quad and ASEAN normative and institutional contradictions. In conclusion, it is proposed that an informal communication channel between ASEAN, Quad and AUKUS can be established based on the approach of “ASEAN minus X + (2) Y”, “Quad plus”, “AUKUS plus”, which can reduce the dilemma of ASEAN ontological security.
