PETALING JAYA: The Global South must chart a new course forward as existing economic structures are increasingly undermined by the current international system, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
Speaking at the BRICS Partners Foreign Ministers Meeting 2025 in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday (April 29), Mohamad said recent developments, such as the tariffs announced by the United States, should not be seen merely as threats, but as opportunities to recalibrate global cooperation.
"This is an opportunity to reshape international cooperation in ways that reflect our strengths and better serve our needs.
"Some might make the mistake of belittling the role of the Global South. They might say, wrongly, that the Global South countries are not worthwhile partners. But the facts say otherwise.
"The Global South, as a collective, is becoming a key actor in global realignment," said Mohamad.
The term "Global South" generally refers to developing or less economically advanced countries, as opposed to the "Global North," which includes more developed, largely Western nations.
Mohamad highlighted Asean’s economic significance, noting its position as the fifth-largest economy globally, with a combined GDP of US$3.8 trillion and a population of 677 million.
“We offer significant purchasing power, strong export performance and open-minded diplomacy,” he said.
With this emerging role in mind, Mohamad said Malaysia, as the chair of Asean this year, is guiding the region towards unity, economic integration 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,” he said.
“We believe that the BRICS community shares our aspirations.”
He added that BRICS is not just a forum, as it is a force for economic resilience, political balance and social advancement.
"Together, we have the power to reshape the contours of international cooperation - not just as critics of the outgoing system, but as architects of a fairer one,” added Mohamad.
He also voiced Malaysia’s support for Brazil’s BRICS chairmanship and its 2025 agenda, which he described as timely and essential.
“Malaysia is ready to work with BRICS to strengthen healthcare systems, share expertise, and promote sustainable, inclusive solutions through our hybrid public-private financing model, which ensures affordability and sustainability,” said Mohamad.
He stressed that the Global South must not be content with a passive role in global decision making, as it must be proactive and united in shaping a cooperative and fair world order.
“The road ahead may be uncertain, but together, we can shape it with purpose,” added Mohamad.
Malaysia became an official BRICS partner country on Jan 1.
The foreign ministers’ meeting is a lead-up to the BRICS Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for July 6 and 7 under Brazil’s chairmanship.
