Malaysia's BRICS Aspirations: China and Brazil Extend Support

Malaysia's ambitions to join the BRICS economic bloc have received significant backing from both China and Brazil. This support was highlighted during a meeting between Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Zahid said that China has reiterated its commitment to Malaysia's bid for full membership in BRICS, a group that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

According to Zahid, this assurance from China follows a previous endorsement from Chinese President Xi Jinping. He emphasized the importance of China's support, noting that it complements the backing Malaysia has already secured from the original BRICS member countries. Zahid said China views its support as important as Malaysia aims to secure full membership in the grouping.

“China views its support as important as Malaysia aims to secure full membership in the grouping.”Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia

In addition to BRICS membership, Zahid mentioned that China hopes Malaysia will continue to act as a bridge for cooperation among ASEAN countries. This includes fostering trilateral cooperation between ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China, which Malaysia has actively facilitated in the past. Zahid pointed out that Malaysia hosted the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit during the last ASEAN Summit and is expected to play a similar role in future meetings.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also expressed his country's full support for Malaysia's BRICS ambitions during a recent ASEAN summit. Lula described Malaysia as a compatible partner with shared values and strong economic potential. He encouraged Brazilian businesses and government sectors to actively explore trade and investment opportunities with Malaysia. Lula noted that trade between Brazil, Malaysia, and Indonesia currently stands at around US$12 billion, though this figure is still low compared to the countries' potential.

“Brazil fully supports Malaysia's ambitions to become a full BRICS member.”Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil

Malaysia was officially recognized as one of 13 new BRICS Partner Countries in 2024, a status that enhances its visibility and influence in global affairs. The Malaysian Foreign Ministry noted that this partnership aligns with the country's independent foreign policy and its role in multilateral forums such as ASEAN and the United Nations.

With China set to assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2027 and host the 19th Summit next year, Malaysia's ongoing efforts to secure full membership could open new avenues for economic collaboration and investment.