Malaysia is set to join the BRICS group of emerging economies, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced in an interview with Chinese media outlet Guancha. The BRICS group, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina, and the UAE, with over 40 countries expressing interest. “We have made a decision and will place the formal procedures soon, awaiting final results from South Africa,” Anwar said, as confirmed by his office to Reuters. His comments precede Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s three-day visit to Malaysia, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. During the visit, Malaysia and China are expected to sign several agreements, including renewing a five-year trade and economic cooperation pact.