Member states have found themselves pulled in different directions, complicating efforts to reach consensus on geopolitical matters, said observers. KUALA LUMPUR: The defence ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) need to maintain the bloc’s centrality in navigating regional security threats, particularly in the hotly contested South China Sea, said observers. This comes as they gathered in Penang for the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) Retreat, which began on