Core Points - Malaysia officially becomes a BRICS partner country on January 1, 2025, reflecting its strategic consideration to expand multilateral cooperation in a complex international environment [1] - The primary motivation for Malaysia's entry into the BRICS mechanism is closely related to economic benefits, as BRICS countries account for nearly half of the global population and over 30% of the global economic output, providing significant market opportunities for Malaysia's export-oriented economy [1] - By joining BRICS, Malaysia aims to diversify its markets and reduce reliance on traditional Western markets, especially in anticipation of potential trade frictions, thus providing a risk-hedging strategy [1] - Malaysia faces the challenge of achieving complementary and effective cooperation within BRICS due to the varying levels of economic development and industrial structures among member countries [1] Economic Relations - Joining BRICS will further strengthen Malaysia's relationship with China, its largest trading partner and a founding member of BRICS [2] - BRICS countries have been promoting "de-dollarization" and Malaysia intends to participate in currency cooperation to mitigate the impact of dollar fluctuations on its domestic economy [2] - Other ASEAN countries like Thailand and Indonesia are also joining BRICS, and Malaysia plans to leverage its role as the ASEAN chair to facilitate high-level meetings and forums to promote practical cooperation between ASEAN and BRICS [2] Global Positioning - Malaysia's decision to join BRICS reflects its efforts to find a new balance in a multipolar world, emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation and flexible diplomacy to address future risks [2] - By utilizing the BRICS platform, Malaysia aims to enhance its international status and influence while seeking new development paths through domestic economic transformation and upgrading [2]