Malaysia has decided to join the BRICS economic group, becoming the latest nation to participate in the expanded bloc seen as challenging the Western-led global order, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced.
In an interview with the Chinese newspaper “Guancha” broadcast ahead of Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s scheduled visit to Malaysia, Anwar stated, “Politically, we have indicated that we will join the group. We have made a decision in this regard and will soon take formal steps.”
BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, will double in size starting in 2024.
The bloc connects some of the world’s largest energy producers with major consumers in developing countries, potentially boosting the group’s economic influence in a world dominated by the United States.
Saudi Arabia, Iran, the UAE, Ethiopia, and Egypt have accepted invitations to join the group from January 1.
Argentina was also invited, but President Javier Milei, who took office on December 10, decided not to join. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro stated last month that his country expects to join BRICS during its next summit in October.
Anwar’s statements come as China seeks to deepen ties with smaller nations like Malaysia, which has maintained its neutrality amid intensifying US-China competition.
During Premier Li’s visit, he and Anwar will witness the signing of several memorandums of understanding and agreements, including those related to the digital economy, green development, and the export of agricultural goods to China, according to Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
BRICS, originally formed in 2009, is an economic bloc comprising five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The group’s expansion reflects its growing significance on the global stage, particularly as a counterbalance to Western economic dominance.
The addition of new members like Malaysia underscores the bloc’s appeal to countries seeking alternatives to Western-led institutions.
Malaysia’s decision to join BRICS highlights its strategic move to align with a multipolar world order while enhancing its economic ties with major global players.
