PODCAST: The Cold War never really ended in SE Asia – Dr Jason Lim, UOW

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By: Robyn Tongol

In this episode of the Defence Connect podcast, Dr Jason Lim, from the University of Wollongong, joins host and former student Steve Kuper to discuss China’s history of engaging with Southeast Asia, the impact of the Cold War, and the political concerns of the region’s Chinese diaspora.

In this episode of the Defence Connect podcast, Dr Jason Lim, from the University of Wollongong, joins host and former student Steve Kuper to discuss China’s history of engaging with Southeast Asia, the impact of the Cold War, and the political concerns of the region’s Chinese diaspora.

  • The pair begin the podcast detailing China’s long history of engaging and influencing the Southeast Asian nations, dating back to the pre-colonial era, and the role this long history continues to play in the way Southeast Asian nations engage with the rising superpower.
  • They then discuss how the Cold War never really ended in the region, with the ideological, economic, political, and strategic competition between China and the United States continuing to simmer behind the scenes despite the collapse of the Soviet Union.
  • Finally, the pair discuss the economic, political, and cultural influence of the region’s Chinese diaspora and how Australia’s neighbours have embraced members of the Chinese community and a shared history to help balance national interests with national security concerns.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team

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Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

Episode 11: CONTESTED GROUND: The information advantage – how AI is reshaping influence, competition and power
Episode 10: PODCAST: Next-generation equipment at Land Forces 2026, with Aquaterro’s Graeme Bulte
Episode 9: SPOTLIGHT: Defence electronics supply chains, counterfeit components and shortages
Episode 8: PODCAST: AUKUS, China and Australia’s defence industrial future, with former prime minister Scott Morrison
Episode 7: CONTESTED GROUND: When AI goes rogue – the emerging threat Australia isn’t ready for
Episode 6: PODCAST: Frontier AI, cyber warfare, and defending Australia’s military networks, with Wendi Whitmore and Tom Scully
Episode 5: PODCAST: Australia’s 2026 Intergenerational Report and national security implications, with Phillip Tarrant and Robert Dougherty
Episode 4: CONTESTED GROUND: AUKUS, deterrence, and the deepening Australia–UK strategic partnership
Episode 3: SPOTLIGHT: Unlocking Australia’s Defence estate through divestment, with Stantec Australia
Episode 2: CONTESTED GROUND: Is Australia ready to secure its place in an increasingly contested space domain?