Opinion | Malaysia’s Brics bid affirms, rather than abandons, its diplomatic values

Malaysia’s anticipated accession to Brics has sparked considerable discussion among political analysts. Has Malaysia forsaken its strategic posture in favour of aligning more closely with China? This perspective misinterprets Malaysia’s long-standing strategy of hedging and the implications of what joining Brics would mean for the country.

While Malaysia aspires to join Brics, it is also a member of the United States-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. Furthermore, Malaysia and the United States conduct joint military exercises.

Additionally, Malaysia is part of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) with Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom. In an increasingly divisive and seemingly bipolar world, Malaysia’s nuanced world view is easily cast aside despite its regional relevance.

Malaysia may have openly expressed reservations about the Aukus alliance – comprising Australia, the US and the UK – but it continues to strengthen defence ties with all three Aukus states, two of which are also FPDA members.