Malaysia’s strategic location in Southeast Asia, particularly in relation to the South China Sea, positions it as an important geopolitical player and a strong candidate for BRICS membership, according to Mizan Aslam, a geostrategy expert from the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM).
Mizan emphasized that the South China Sea has become a focal point for great power competition, involving nations like the United States, China, and European countries. In this context, Malaysia’s geographical position and economic growth make it an ideal candidate for BRICS, a platform for emerging economies.
Strategic Importance and Geopolitical Influence
“Malaysiaโs location makes us important and crucial. We hold the route between east and west, which is highly strategic,” Mizan stated during a recent Bernama TV programme. He added that this strategic position often makes Western countries uneasy, as they prefer Malaysia to remain neutral in the East-West geopolitical dynamics. However, this unique position offers Malaysia significant advantages, especially as its economy continues to grow.
Malaysia’s Move Toward BRICS
BRICS, originally formed in 2009, includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The group expanded in January 2024 to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. Malaysia has expressed its intention to join BRICS, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirming in July that the country had submitted a formal application to Russia, the current BRICS chair.
Mizan highlighted that Malaysia’s potential membership in BRICS could open new opportunities in areas such as security, technology, and sovereignty. “There is no pressure for us to join BRICS. This is our choice, and we can collaborate in technology, which in previous collaborations with the West, we were merely consumers,” he said, suggesting that BRICS could provide Malaysia with a different orientation, including technology transfer and more substantial collaborations.
Impact on Relations with the West
When asked about the potential impact of Malaysiaโs participation in BRICS on its relations with Western powers, Mizan expressed confidence that it would not harm these relationships. He noted that BRICS is viewed as a platform for developing and low-income countries to advocate for justice and equality in the global economy.
Mizan also pointed out that economic sanctions are often used by Western powers to influence or coerce other countries, implying that BRICS could offer an alternative framework where Malaysia could exercise more autonomy.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s strategic location and growing economy make it a compelling candidate for BRICS membership. As the country navigates its potential role within this group, it stands to benefit from enhanced opportunities in security, technology, and sovereignty, while maintaining balanced relations with Western powers.
