Malaysia, a nation long known for its independent and non-aligned foreign policy, officially stepped onto a broader world stage on January 1, 2025, by becoming a BRICS Partner Country. The move, hailed by government officials as both strategic and timely, is expected to accelerate the country's economic growth, bolster its international standing, and unlock a new era of opportunity across multiple sectors.
According to the Foreign Ministry, Malaysia's acceptance into the BRICS fold as a partner is more than a symbolic gesture. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan explained in a written parliamentary reply that "Malaysia’s acceptance recognises our independent and non-aligned foreign policy. Being part of BRICS enhances our position on the global stage while complementing our role in multilateral forums such as ASEAN, the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Non-Aligned Movement and the Group of 77."
The implications of this partnership are far-reaching. BRICS—an influential bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—represents nearly half of the world’s population and about 27% of global GDP. Malaysia, as a Partner Country, now finds itself with a seat at a table that shapes global economic trends and policies. Decisions within BRICS are made by consensus, and Malaysia intends to leverage its new status to build support for eventual full membership. As Mohamad Hasan put it, "Partner status allows Malaysia’s voice to be heard more clearly internationally, raising our profile and visibility. It reflects our multilateral approach to addressing global challenges." (The Star)
But what does this mean for the average Malaysian business or worker? For one, the numbers are already impressive. Malaysia’s trade with BRICS countries reached RM818 billion in 2024, accounting for 35.2% of the country’s total trade. Of that, exports amounted to RM334.85 billion—an eye-watering 45% of Malaysia’s total exports. These figures, reported by Bernama, underscore just how intertwined Malaysia’s economic fortunes are with those of the BRICS nations.
Key sectors stand to benefit the most. The palm oil and rubber industries, already global powerhouses, are expected to expand further as new markets open up. The electrical and electronics sector, a linchpin of Malaysia's industrial base, could see increased investment and access to technology through deeper engagement with BRICS partners. Tourism and healthcare services, too, are poised for growth as greater cooperation leads to more cross-border flows of people and expertise.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that "BRICS offers significant potential for expanding Malaysia’s key exports, including palm oil, rubber, and electrical and electronics products. It also opens opportunities in services sectors such as tourism and healthcare." (Bernama)
Yet, the partnership is not just about trade. BRICS facilitates industrial cooperation in energy, critical minerals, and technology—areas crucial for Malaysia’s ambitions under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap. These national frameworks aim to steer Malaysia toward a future defined by green growth, digital transformation, renewable energy, and high-value industrial development. As the Foreign Ministry stated, "This cooperation supports Malaysia’s aspirations in green growth, digital transformation, renewable energy, and high-value industrial development."
In practical terms, this could mean joint ventures in renewable energy projects with China, technology transfers from India, or even collaboration on critical minerals with Brazil. Such partnerships are designed to reduce Malaysia’s reliance on traditional trading partners—mainly Western economies—while broadening the country’s industrial and technological base.
For policymakers, the partnership with BRICS is also about geopolitics. As Mohamad Hasan outlined, Malaysia’s involvement in BRICS "recognises our independent and non-aligned foreign policy." By aligning with a bloc that often positions itself as a counterweight to Western-dominated institutions, Malaysia aims to maintain its autonomy while maximizing economic gains. This approach, officials say, complements Malaysia’s existing roles in organizations like ASEAN and the Non-Aligned Movement.
The process of becoming a full BRICS member, however, is not immediate. As decisions are made by consensus, Malaysia must use its partner status to build relationships and demonstrate its value to the bloc. The government has made clear its intention to seek full membership in the future, with the Foreign Ministry noting that Malaysia "will leverage its partner status to build support for eventual full membership."
Beyond the economic data and diplomatic maneuvering, the partnership has tangible implications for Malaysians. New markets for palm oil and rubber could translate into more jobs and higher incomes for rural communities. Expanded cooperation in healthcare and tourism could bring world-class services closer to home. And greater investment in green industries and digitalization might just help Malaysia leapfrog into a future where sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand.
Of course, challenges remain. Malaysia must navigate the complexities of BRICS decision-making, which operates on consensus and often reflects the divergent interests of its members. There are also questions about how quickly Malaysia can move from partner to full member, and what conditions might be attached to that transition.
Still, the mood in Putrajaya is one of cautious optimism. The government sees the partnership as a way to hedge against global uncertainties—whether they stem from shifting trade winds, technological disruption, or geopolitical tensions. By deepening ties with BRICS, Malaysia hopes to secure a more stable and resilient economic future.
As the Foreign Ministry summed up, "Being part of BRICS enhances our position on the global stage while complementing our role in multilateral forums." The message is clear: Malaysia is betting that its new role in BRICS will help it achieve faster, more sustainable, and more resilient growth, while ensuring its voice is heard in the corridors of global power.
For a country that has always prized its independence and adaptability, the BRICS partnership marks both a continuation of tradition and a bold step into the future. With trade figures already surging and new opportunities on the horizon, Malaysia seems poised to make the most of its new status—one carefully negotiated consensus at a time.
