ABSTRACT
The role of shared identity in informing states' cooperation is one of the core features of constructivism. The so-called 'ASEAN spirit' or the 'ASEAN Way' has been deemed as the norm that helps to advance cooperation among Southeast Asian countries. This chapter questions the dominant view among scholars that the ASEAN Way, as a form of shared identity among Southeast Asian states, plays an important role in shaping cooperation. It discusses the interplay between the ASEAN Way as shared identity and the processes and interactions between Southeast Asian countries in forming communities. The chapter examines the explanation suggested by the literature on the importance of shared identity in informing cooperation to assess the reasons underpinning Indonesia's participation in maritime security cooperation. It argues that shared identity did not inform Indonesia's decision to cooperate or not cooperate in maritime security. The chapter explains Indonesia's cooperation and non-cooperation when dealing with fellow ASEAN states and non-ASEAN states.
