The global order is evolving, and with it, the center of gravity in international politics and economics is steadily shifting toward the Global South. Developing nations are no longer passive players on the sidelines.
They are shaping the rules, influencing agendas, and forming alliances that reflect their growing economic power and strategic importance.
One key sign of this transformation is the expansion of BRICS, the influential economic bloc initially composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
While originally seen as a counterweight to Western-dominated institutions, BRICS has now taken a bold step forward by introducing a new, more inclusive category: the "partner country."
What Is a 'Partner Country' in BRICS?
This innovative concept was launched at the 2024 BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia. Unlike full membership, partner country status allows nations to engage with BRICS-led projects, policy dialogues, and summits without assuming all the obligations of a full member.
Think of it as a bridge, providing a foothold in the bloc's initiatives while preserving national autonomy. In January 2025, BRICS officially unveiled its first list of partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
Viet Nam, although not yet formalized, is widely viewed as a strong contender given its active interest in joining inclusive and pragmatic economic forums.
Three Southeast Asian Nations on the Move
The emergence of Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam as BRICS partner countries is a landmark development for Southeast Asia. These aren't just rapidly developing economies, they are increasingly seen as regional anchors in terms of innovation, growth resilience, and global trade connectivity.
Malaysia brings its robust electronics and manufacturing ecosystem to the table, alongside progressive climate goals and investments in renewable energy. Thailand, strategically located at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, continues to build its reputation as a logistics and tourism powerhouse.
Meanwhile, Viet Nam has carved out a role as a rising export hub, benefiting from shifts in global supply chains and a steady stream of foreign direct investment.
Strategic Opportunities in a New Era
With partner country status, these nations are well-positioned to tap into BRICS collaboration in key areas such as green technology, digital infrastructure, smart agriculture, and food security.
They also stand to benefit from greater access to trade and investment mechanisms that aim to reduce dependency on Western financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank.
Perhaps even more critically, BRICS presents an avenue for these countries to engage in energy and food diplomacy at a time when global supply chains face increasing uncertainty and climate-related disruptions.
The Challenge of Balancing ASEAN Neutrality and National Interests
Yet, this new level of engagement brings with it delicate diplomatic considerations. ASEAN, as a regional bloc, is grounded in the principles of neutrality, consensus, and non-alignment.
The presence of some ASEAN members within BRICS raises important questions: Could this affect the cohesion of ASEAN? Will it nudge the region closer to one sphere of influence?
There is also the potential for friction with traditional allies in the West, particularly if BRICS continues to be viewed as a geopolitical counterforce. Navigating these tensions will require strategic foresight and a balanced foreign policy approach.
Southeast Asia at the Center of the Global Stage
What is undeniable is that Southeast Asia is stepping confidently into a more prominent role in global affairs. By joining BRICS as partner countries, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam are not just reacting to global trends. They are actively helping to shape them.
This shift signals not just participation, but influence. For Southeast Asia, the partner country status is a gateway to deeper integration with the emerging multipolar world. And in a time of accelerating change, such flexible partnerships may prove vital to staying competitive, relevant, and resilient.
