On Friday's Backchat Global Focus, we're talking about Malaysia's plan to join the informal economic and trade group known as BRICS, after its founder members, which include China.

The Southeast Asian nation may soon become the group's tenth member in what some analysts say could further challenge the US dollar's dominance in international trade.


Earlier this week, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his country would submit a formal application as soon as it receives feedback from South Africa, which currently chairs the organisation.


NATO member Turkey is also hoping to join.


Is Malaysia recalibrating its position on the global stage? And how has this move been received by its ASEAN neighbours?


After 9:45, we learn more from a labour lawyer on how to avoid summer job scams after several students accused their employers of not paying them as advertised.


9:05am-9:45am: Malaysia's bid to join BRICS


9:05am-9:45am: Prof Geoffrey Williams, Malaysia based Economist and Policy Specialist
9:05am-9:45am: Prof James Chin, Professor in Asian Studies and International Relations, University of Tasmania
9:05am-9:45am: Andrew Leung, International and Independent China Strategist; Former Director General of Social Welfare


9:45am-10:00am: Summer jobs

9:45am-10:00am: Michael Szeto, Partner at ONC Lawyers