KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 7 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off his two-day visit to Malaysia with a warm welcome, highlighting India’s rising global stature. Upon arrival, he was greeted at the airport by his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, alongside key ministers including Human Resources Minister Ramanan Ramakrishnan and Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman Bin Awang Sauni. Traditional cultural performances celebrated the shared heritage between the two nations, setting a tone of deep friendship.
Addressing the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur, PM Modi declared, ‘India is seen as a reliable partner for growth worldwide. From the UK and UAE to Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU, and the US, trade deals underscore this bond. Trust has become India’s most powerful currency.’ Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim joined the event, witnessing the strengthening ties.
PM Modi introduced ‘IMPACT’ as the guiding principle for India-Malaysia relations – standing for India-Malaysia Partnership for Advancing Collective Transformation. He emphasized, ‘India’s success is Malaysia’s success, and together, it’s Asia’s triumph.’ This visit aims to bolster the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership elevated in 2024, aligning with India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.
Praising the Indian-origin community – the world’s second-largest outside India – PM Modi noted their role as a bridge between nations. He recalled mentioning them in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio show, sharing how over 500 schoolchildren in Malaysia learn Indian languages, preserving traditions for centuries.
Spotlighting the Tamil community’s contributions across sectors, PM Modi announced pride in establishing a Thiruvalluvar Chair at Malaya University and plans for a dedicated Thiruvalluvar Centre to deepen cultural bonds. ‘Bring your Malay friends along,’ he urged, stressing people-to-people ties. Exciting updates included a new Indian consulate in Malaysia soon and extending OCI eligibility to the sixth generation for Malaysian nationals of Indian origin – a historic move from recent months.
This engagement reaffirms India’s commitment to robust bilateral relations, fostering economic, cultural, and strategic collaboration in the region.