RIO DE JANEIRO, July 7, 2025 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the need for principled multilateralism and ethical artificial intelligence (AI) governance on the opening day of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit, which focused on strengthening global economic and financial systems, multilateralism, and responsible AI development.
In his intervention, Anwar firmly rejected a world divided by geopolitical rivalries or bloc confrontations, advocating instead for cooperation, shared prosperity, and a commitment to a fair, secure, and inclusive digital future. He expressed concern over the risks posed by “geopolitics of tech,” warning that technology driven by geopolitical agendas could undermine innovation and societal stability.
“Multilateralism is no longer optional—it is an absolute necessity to ensure global stability, economic justice, and the sovereignty of developing nations, preventing their marginalization in the geopolitical and technological shifts,” Anwar declared.
Highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to principled cooperation over confrontation, Anwar aligned the nation’s approach with universal values of justice, inclusivity, and sovereignty. He also urged the international community to address ongoing humanitarian crises, condemning the silence on atrocities in Gaza and against the Iranian people. “BRICS must rise as a voice for universal justice, rejecting oppression and upholding human dignity,” he stressed.
As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia is championing a fairer, more open global trading system aligned with BRICS’ aspirations for development-focused reforms. Anwar welcomed BRICS’ emphasis on ethical AI governance, noting Malaysia’s proactive steps, including the launch of its National AI Roadmap and AI Governance Guidelines. Malaysia is also spearheading the establishment of an ASEAN AI network to enhance regional capabilities, transparency, and standards in advanced technology.
Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s readiness to collaborate closely with BRICS and partner nations to build a more equitable global economic system, a trusted digital environment, and a multilateral framework that serves humanity’s shared future.