Untapped potential seen in four Asean members' link-up with Brics

JAKARTA - Nearly half of Asean's member states have aligned themselves with Brics, the nine-member bloc of emerging economies often viewed as a strategic counterbalance to Western influence.

- Hariz Baharudin

Founded in 2009, Brics originally consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, China and later, South Africa. At its latest 16th summit held in Russia from Oct 22 to Oct 24, the alliance unveiled its most significant expansion yet, by welcoming four new members as well as 13 new partner nations.

Among these new partner countries were four South-east Asian nations and key Asean members: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Each country has its own motivations for joining the bloc, which currently accounts for more than a quarter of global economic output.

These go beyond mere trade incentives, as Brics presents opportunities to broaden international partnerships and reduce the reliance on Western economies amid rising global tensions.

FULL MEMBER VERSUS PARTNER NATION The difference between being a full member of Brics and a partner nation mainly lies in the level of involvement, decision-making authority and collaboration.

Full members have decision-making power as well as voting rights and play a direct role in shaping the agenda and policies of Brics. In comparison, partner countries do not have voting rights and their role is more collaborative, with limited decision-making.

Being a Brics partner allows for flexible engagement without the responsibilities or obligations of full membership. For example, partner countries can work with bloc members on specific issues such as trade or research but are not bound by the same level of political and institutional commitment.

While the addition of partner countries signals a strategic move towards geopolitical diversification and expanded trade opportunities, the direct economic benefits remain uncertain, experts told The Straits Times.

Still, there are positives from being part of the Brics, they say, noting how the presence of four key Asean members provides a stronger voice for the South-east Asian region in shaping conversations in the bloc.