RUSSIAN Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to Malaysia on July 27 was to show that Moscow values its relations with Kuala Lumpur and the region.
A more important reason is that Malaysia will be Asean chair next year. Defence and military assets, and a space venture, make it easier to boost Moscow-Kuala Lumpur ties.
There is the perception that the West and China are more preferred to Asean members.
Now is seen as the best time for elevating Russia-Malaysia ties, including economy and defence issues, as Malaysia has applied to join BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates.
The possibility of Malaysia joining BRICS presents a new opening for Russia to increase partnerships in this region.
Southeast Asia remains relevant for Russia to counter United States influence and serves to complement China's goals and influence, which have seen the US moving closer to the region.
BRICS and engagement with Asean are the ideal path for expansion for Russia.
Malaysia is seen as the critical player in maintaining the centrality of Asean, with Lavrov praising Malaysia's balanced stand in the Ukraine conflict.
The main message is that Southeast Asia, and Malaysia, remains on Russia's radar.
COLLINS CHONG YEW KEAT
Foreign affairs, strategy and security analyst
Universiti Malaya
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times