Malaysia eyes BRICS membership to amplify global voice - Mohamad

SEREMBAN: Malaysia's intention to join the intergovernmental economic grouping, BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), will enable the country to address various issues on the international stage more effectively.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said Malaysia's influence will be significantly enhanced as part of this economic bloc compared to operating independently.

"We are currently analysing, monitoring and assessing our readiness to become a member of BRICS. Our participation in this bloc must benefit the country and not merely serve as a point of pride. Therefore, we are examining and analysing its significance.

"We undertake any initiative only if it serves the national interest. By becoming a member of BRICS, we can ensure that Malaysia's intentions are voiced (on various issues). This is our strategy for making our voice heard on the global stage," he told reporters.

Mohamad, who is also Rembau MP, told reporters this after launching the Kampung Angkat Madani Initiative and the 1445H/2024 Ibadah Korban organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Kampung Kanchong community hall in Rantau today.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today confirmed that he has expressed Malaysia's wish to join BRICS to the President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, adding that Malaysia will go through the process to enable the country to join the intergovernmental organisation.

BRICS was established in 2009 as a cooperation platform for emerging economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India and China with South Africa joining the group in 2010.

In January 2024, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates joined the organisation as new members.

Meanwhile, Mohamad said the official visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Malaysia aims to strengthen and enhance bilateral relations, particularly in trade.

"China is the second-largest economy in the world and is close to our region. It is also our largest trading partner, so there are many issues we can negotiate and further enhance for the benefit of both countries.

"Malaysia and China's close relationship needs to be strengthened. At the same time, there are issues that need to be resolved and negotiated together, such as the South China Sea dispute. This good relationship allows us to manage any problems effectively," he said.

Wisma Putra announced today that Premier Li will undertake a three-day visit to Malaysia starting today to strengthen bilateral relations and commemorate the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.

-- BERNAMA