Malaysia's State Autonomy Status in China's Belt and Road Initiative Partnership
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32890/jis2025.21.1.6Keywords:
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), structuration theory, dualism, foreign policy, state autonomyAbstract
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), introduced by Xi Jinping in September 2013, has become a significant component of China's global economic strategy, impacting its numerous partner countries, including Malaysia. This study examines Malaysia's state autonomy in managing its relationship with China within the BRI framework under Anwar Ibrahim's leadership. While the initiative presents economic benefits, Malaysia faces challenges in balancing its autonomy with its strategic and comprehensive engagement in BRI projects. This study employs a qualitative approach, drawing insights from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through interviews with government officials, industry experts, and relevant stakeholders, while secondary sources included existing literature, reports, and official documents. The study assesses Malaysia's strategic approach to maintaining autonomy within the BRI partnership, identifies key factors influencing Malaysia's decision-making regarding BRI projects, and examines the broader implications of Malaysia's state autonomy on its economy and national interests. Supported by Anthony Giddens’ structuration framework, the findings shed light on Malaysia's governance strategies and interactions with China under the BRI. By analysing the dynamics of state autonomy in this partnership, the study provides valuable insights of the BRI’s implications for Malaysia's sovereignty, economic development, and foreign policy.
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