Malaysian media outlet The Star reports that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed Malaysia submitted an application to Russia to join the BRICS intergovernmental organisation.
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Anwar said Malaysia’s desire to join the BRICS organisation was the main topic of his discussion with visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
“Malaysia has sent a letter of application to join the (BRICS) organisation to Russia as the BRICS chairman, besides expressing openness to participate as a member country or strategic partner,” he said.
On June 18, Anwar confirmed Malaysia’s intention to join BRICS to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
BRICS, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India and China, was established in 2009 as a cooperation platform for emerging economies, with South Africa joining the bloc in 2010. From January 2024 the bloc expanded to include several new members, including Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates.
Watch video analysis by Lena Petrova (extract).
Sources:
- Lena Petrova, July 30, 2024. https://www.youtube.com/embed/lt7sFxTbq9A/?start=157&?end=392&
- The Star, July 29, 2024. https://www.thestar.com.my/…/malaysia-applies-to-join…