Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to a red-carpet reception accorded by his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, as the two sides prepared for talks aimed at deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership, including defence, security and economic cooperation.
Modi was received at the airport by Ibrahim, accompanied by Malaysian Human Resources Minister Ramanan Ramakrishnan and Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman bin Awang Sauni, amid performances of traditional music and dance reflecting the shared cultural heritage of the two countries.
“Deeply touched by the warm welcome extended by my friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the airport. I look forward to our conversations and to further strengthening the bonds of friendship between India and Malaysia,” Modi said in a social media post.
The two leaders later travelled together in the same car to an Indian community programme in Kuala Lumpur, which Ibrahim also attended. “Celebrating the India-Malaysia people-to-people connect! PM Anwar Ibrahim and I are heading to the community programme in Kuala Lumpur,” Modi said.
Wide-ranging bilateral talks are scheduled for Sunday, with both sides expected to firm up agreements to expand cooperation across multiple sectors. In his departure statement, Modi said the visit would focus on strengthening defence cooperation and enhancing economic engagement.
Also read: PM Modi to strengthen defence ties in Malaysia
“The historic ties between India and Malaysia have seen steadfast progress in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and further enhancing our comprehensive strategic partnership,” Modi said.
“We will aim to deepen our defence and security ties, enhance our economic and innovation partnership, and expand our collaboration into new domains,” he added.
India and Malaysia elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in August 2024. During delegation-level talks, New Delhi is also expected to renew its request for the extradition of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who resides in Malaysia.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the visit carried a “rich agenda”. “The visit is expected to impart significant momentum to our close & multi-faceted partnership,” he said.
Modi also highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia, one of the largest overseas Indian communities globally. “Numbering nearly three million, they represent one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world,” he said, adding that their contribution formed a “living bridge” between the two nations.
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