By Maybelene Marcelino
Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has presented a vision for a reformed international system at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, urging collective Global South action to create a more inclusive and equitable framework.
Modern challenges require forward-thinking systems
When delivering Malaysia’s intervention at a dedicated session themed “The Role of the Global South in Reinforcing Multilateralism,” the official described the recent surge in tariffs as “shockwaves through the global community,” but also as “both a revelation and an opportunity.”
He argued that the current international system is actively undermining global stability and economic security and advocated for international and regional cooperation realignment to tackle key challenges.
“Global South, as a collective, is becoming a key actor in global realignment, and it must not be content with a passive role in global decision-making,” he said, as quoted by Bernama.
“We must be proactive, forward-looking, and united in shaping a cooperative, just world order. Malaysia stands ready to work with BRICS and all partners who share this vision.”
Mohamad underscored Malaysia’s commitment to this vision, highlighting the country’s readiness to work with BRICS and all partners to realize shared goals.
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Harnessing ASEAN’s economic might
Meanwhile, recognizing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as the world’s fifth-largest economy with a combined gross domestic product of US$3.8 trillion, the minister emphasised the region’s significant purchasing power, strong export performance and open-minded diplomacy, which are all crucial to the global economic landscape.
He conveyed that with this emerging role in mind, Malaysia, as the chair of ASEAN this year, is actively guiding the region towards unity, economic cohesion, and strategic diversification.
“Through our commitment to an open, rules-based, and inclusive regional architecture, ASEAN is focused on strengthening intra-regional trade, developing resilient supply chains, and embracing emerging industries that place sustainability and innovation at their core,” said the Malaysian official.
Mohamad asserted that ASEAN, together with the Global South and BRICS, have the power to reshape the contours of international relations – not just as critics of the outgoing system but as the architects of a fairer one.
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