The Global South is reshaping global governance in 2025, with BRICS expansion and calls for equitable growth challenging Western-dominated structures
KUALA LUMPUR: The year 2025 has seen the rise of the Global South as a significant force reshaping international politics and economics.
Developing nations across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Pacific are pushing for a fairer and more representative global governance system.
Analysts say this shift is driving renewed calls for multipolarity, equitable growth and genuine multilateralism.
The momentum is reflected in the strengthening of platforms such as BRICS, which has expanded to include several new members.
The expanded BRICS now represents half of the world’s population and advances a collective agenda aimed at balancing Western dominance.
China’s development model, integrating ecology with economic planning, is seen by many as a viable pathway beyond Western templates.
The Global South’s vision for governance is anchored on true multilateralism, equitable development and respect for national sovereignty.
Geostrategist Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said Malaysia’s engagement with the Global South stems from a long-held concern.
He noted that decisions by a handful of advanced economies often affect the developing world without adequate consultation.
“During Malaysia’s recent ASEAN chairmanship, the country did not push the regional bloc to side with any major power,” he told Bernama.
He said Malaysia instead encouraged all ASEAN member states to maintain dialogue amid rising geopolitical tensions.
According to him, Malaysia’s neutral stance helped strengthen ASEAN’s credibility at its most recent summit.
Leading geopolitical expert Prof James Chin said Malaysia’s emphasis on the Global South traces back to the era of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is now reinforcing and expanding this strategic direction.
“Malaysia is not putting all its eggs in one basket,” Chin said, noting the country’s participation in multiple agreements like RCEP.
Malaysia’s long-term alignment with the Global South is expected to shape ASEAN’s strategic outlook in coming years.
Chin said Malaysia’s outreach reflects a forward-looking approach to give ASEAN greater strategic options.
“As BRICS expands, now representing around 25% of global GDP, its influence will continue to challenge existing global economic structures,” he said.
He noted BRICS’ growing emphasis on alternative financial mechanisms could offer ASEAN new tools to manage risk.
A rising number of countries are promoting local currency use for international trade through bilateral agreements.
Looking ahead, Chin said ASEAN’s main challenges will include sustaining centrality and managing internal divisions.
He cautioned that ongoing instability in Myanmar will continue to undermine ASEAN’s credibility.
However, he said Malaysia’s Global South orientation offers ASEAN a broader foundation to navigate uncertainty.
Azmi said Malaysia’s neutral, dialogue-driven approach is expected to remain central to the region’s diplomatic posture.
“Neutrality, engagement and balance will continue to be ASEAN’s most important tools,” he said. – Bernama
