The BRICS summit in Kazan drew 36 leaders, reflecting rising interest in the bloc as an alternative to the Western-led system. With Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand already partner countries, their potential full membership could reshape ASEAN cohesion while amplifying its global voice. BRICS appeals through its inclusive approach, Global South alignment, and vast regional influence, offering Southeast Asia new trade and investment links across Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. Analysts argue ASEAN can avoid obsolescence by engaging BRICS collectively rather than individually, using hedging strategies that balance ties with both BRICS and institutions like the OECD to strengthen its role as a regional and global hub.
