Malaysia is actively seeking backing from BRICS nations as it pursues membership in the influential economic bloc, Deputy Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong revealed on Thursday.
The announcement follows Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan’s official communication to BRICS ministers, expressing Malaysia’s intention to join.
Speaking during a Dewan Rakyat session, Liew highlighted that a senior Malaysia minister will attend the BRICS Outreach/BRICS Plus Summit at the end of October, providing a key opportunity to gather support from the group’s leaders.
Liew was responding to a query by Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading) about Malaysia’s bid to join BRICS and its potential economic impact. He emphasized that Malaysia’s desire to join the bloc aligns with its neutral foreign policy, enhancing BRICS’ commitment to multilateralism.
“BRICS members like Brazil, Egypt, and the UAE also maintain neutral stances in foreign policy, reflecting Malaysia’s approach,” Liew said, downplaying concerns that membership could strain relations with Western nations.
He pointed to recent investments from global giants such as Google, Oracle, and Amazon as evidence that Malaysia’s neutrality is well-accepted by Western corporations.
In addition to strengthening ties with BRICS, Liew noted that Malaysia’s membership would complement its participation in other regional and international organizations, including ASEAN, APEC, and the OIC.
He also reiterated Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s commitment to pursuing OECD membership, underscoring Malaysia’s efforts to maintain strong global relationships.
Liew further highlighted Malaysia’s focus on promoting the Global South agenda, with BRICS membership providing a valuable platform to address challenges facing South-South nations.
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