By Dr. Syed Alwee Alsagoff
Southeast Asia is witnessing a potential power shift with Malaysia’s application to join the BRICS+alliance confirmed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. With Thailand’s application under way as well, the grouping now lengthens its reach and could signal a significant shift in the region’s economic and geo-political alignment in the Southeast Asia region.
BRICS, often viewed as a challenger to the established Western-led world order, has grown in prominence in recent years. Originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the bloc has expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates this year. Collectively, these eight nations boast a population exceeding 4 billion (representing 45% of the world’s total and occupying 30% of its landmass). It is said that this formidable economic and demographic force can create a stronger global voice and play a more prominent role in shaping the geopolitical landscape.
Beyond economics, BRICS+ nations are fostering collaboration in education, opening doors for student exchange and joint research. The launch of the BRICS+ Universities Association (BUA) with over 148 members from 35 countries signifies a significant push for knowledge-sharing and collaborative research. Additionally, the 3rd BRICS TVET Institution Presidents Forum, held in May 2024, highlighted the growing importance of vocational training cooperation as a focus on preparing future workforces to build a strong scientific and technological workforce within member states.
A Surge in Research Funding? The China Factor
Malaysia’s universities may be presented with a golden opportunity as the landscape of global research collaborations undergoes a potential shift, according to analysts. With China’s dominance in cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), a redirection of research partnerships could prove highly advantageous for Malaysia.
A recent Web of Science study paints a sharp picture of China’s staggering contribution to global AI research, currently accounting for a whopping 40% of all published papers. This dwarfs the efforts of the United States (10%) and the combined output of the European Union and Britain (15%).
However, this shift presents a silver lining for Malaysia. While China excels in AI, robotics, renewable energy, and zero-carbon technology, Malaysia boasts unique expertise in areas critical for developing economies: Islamic finance, sustainable agriculture, and tropical medicine. This complementary skillset aligns perfectly with the strengths of BRICS+ nations and experts believe this synergy could fuel groundbreaking joint research projects, propelling Malaysia to the forefront of innovation.
The driving force? China’s research spending, which reigns supreme. Its research and development (R&D) expenditure exceeded a staggering 3.3 trillion yuan (about USD$458.5 billion, the world’s 2nd highest) in 2023, with an 8.1-percent year-on-year increase. But a key question emerges: where will these funds flow? Historically, China has partnered with Belt and Road Initiative nations, and has reportedly invested over USD$300 million in joint research projects with British universities since 2015 (UK Research Institute). Additionally, Chinese companies like Huawei have invested millions specifically in UK telecommunications research alone.
However, the winds of change may be blowing. Increased collaboration within BRICS+ could be the next chapter in China’s research strategy, potentially opening doors for Malaysia. This development is worth watching closely, as it could usher in a new era of research partnerships for Malaysian universities.
Student Exodus: BRICS+ Seek New Education Hubs
As the global education landscape evolves, students from India and China (accounting for nearly 30% of the global student mobility populous) are increasingly seeking destinations that offer value, quality, and cultural proximity. With BRICS+ countries gaining prominence, the future of student mobility is likely to be more diverse and interconnected.
The traditional dominance of the US, UK, and Australia as top study destinations for BRICS+ students is waning. A growing trend towards diversification is evident, with countries like Canada, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Malaysia emerging as popular alternatives. China, once a major source of students for Canada, has seen a 40,000 decline in enrolments. In a surprising shift, Japan overtook Canada as the top destination for
Chinese students in 2023, with enrolments surging 11% to 115,495. Other Asian countries like South Korea and Thailand have also witnessed significant growth. Malaysia, in particular, has seen an over 20% increase in Chinese applications in 2023 alone, driven by affordable education options. India, too, is experiencing a change in study abroad patterns. While the number of Indian students heading overseas continues to rise, there’s a clear shift away from traditional destinations. Countries like Canada faced setbacks due to visa issues. In the UK, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) reveal a decline in applications from Indian students to British universities this year. Australia’s Albanese government’s “New Migration Strategy” international student caps and immigration restrictions looming next year will severely dampen new Indians students to Australia in the forthcoming future.
The rise of BRICS+ nations, including Malaysia, presents a new landscape for student mobility. Collaboration among these countries could create a network of universities offering diverse programs. Malaysia, with its established education system and economic growth, is well-positioned to attract students from India and China. However, challenges like standardisation of education systems and infrastructure development need to be addressed to fully capitalise on this opportunity. Malaysia’s Balancing Act: BRICS+ and ASEAN.
Notwithstanding, Malaysia’s growing ties with the BRICS+ bloc may raise eyebrows about its potential impact on the longstanding ASEAN educational cooperation. As Malaysia prepares to chair ASEAN next year, the delicate task of balancing these two influential groups emerges. While BRICS prioritises research excellence and producing top-tier scientists and engineers, ASEAN focuses on regional integration, fostering a workforce with strong soft skills. This divergence in priorities is evident in their funding structures and collaborative platforms. BRICS relies heavily on government funding and a centralised body, the BRICS University Alliance (BUA), while ASEAN adopts a broader approach involving various stakeholders and a government- led structure.
Concerns linger about the potential dilution of ASEAN’s influence. Decades-old programs like the ASEAN Work Plan on Education and the ASEAN University Network are pillars of regional cooperation. A shift in focus towards BRICS could undermine these efforts. Moreover, a separate BRICS education framework might create unnecessary overlaps with existing bodies like UNESCO and SEAMEO (Southeast Asia Ministers of Education Organisation). However, the potential for synergy is undeniable. Both blocs are increasingly recognising the importance of soft skills, and BRICS+ research capabilities could bolster ASEAN’s research agenda. Technological advancements can bridge the gap between the two.
Yet, challenges persist
The diverse development levels within BRICS could hamper unified efforts, and aligning BRICS initiatives with ASEAN’s existing framework will require diplomatic finesse. Malaysia’s appointment of Datin Sarah Nava Rani Al Bakri Devadason as its ASEAN Permanent Representative is seen as a strategic move. In the next 5 years, her experience will be crucial in steering this complex balancing act. Ultimately, the success of a BRICS+ASEAN educational partnership hinges on effective collaboration and mutual benefit. If managed wisely, it could equip Southeast Asia’s youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Dr. Syed Alwee Alsagoff is a Fellow at Majlis Profesor Negara.
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