The Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea hold considerable geopolitical significance as some of the world’s busiest and most strategic waterways. South East Asia's maritime scenario remains delicate with highly complex issues ranging from territorial disputes to regional and international power jockeying. An obstruction of vital bottlenecks could cause international havoc. The EU's interests in the region are immense but its role remains limited. Maintaining peace and stability in Asia is crucial for the EU and the EU should do more in the region.