Kuala Lumpur buzzes with anticipation as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his two-day official visit to Malaysia starting February 7. The Indian diaspora, numbering in the millions, is thrilled at the prospect of welcoming their leader after a decade-long wait for many.
Pradeep Batra, an Indian-origin resident, shared his excitement, recounting how he last saw PM Modi in 2015. ‘It’s a moment of pride for all Indians here,’ he said, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expected to join the occasion.
Cultural performances are set to steal the show. Kalpana, director of a dance group, remembers performing traditional Indian arts before PM Modi ten years ago. ‘Malaysia adores PM Modi, and we’re ready with open hearts,’ she enthused.
A grand cultural extravaganza awaits, featuring 800 to 1,000 dancers showcasing classical and folk arts, aiming to set a new record. One dancer remarked, ‘Modi ji is more than a person; he’s a brand. This visit will highlight our contributions and strengthen ties.’
Deepa Rajendran noted the earlier canceled visit three months ago left them disappointed, but now enthusiasm runs high. ‘We’ll showcase India’s vibrant colors in one performance,’ she said.
Gayatri C Ramesh, president of the Malaysia Bharatanatyam Dance Association, added, ‘Our single dance piece weaves India’s grandeur through diverse styles.’
This visit follows the elevation of India-Malaysia ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024. Key discussions will focus on trade, investment, defense, security, and a potential semiconductor partnership agreement, promising deeper economic bonds.