Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day official visit to Malaysia on Saturday with the motive to strengthen defence and security engagements, enhance economic ties, and propel relations with the Indian diaspora.
Announcing the journey on X, Modi said, “At the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, I will be visiting Malaysia, a nation with which India’s ties are deep-rooted and extensive. This visit will boost our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and enhance cooperation across sectors.” “Malaysia is home to a vibrant Indian diaspora. Looking forward to today’s community programme in Kuala Lumpur, where I will get an opportunity to interact with our diaspora.”
At the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, I will be visiting Malaysia, a nation with which India’s ties are deep-rooted and extensive. This visit will boost our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and enhance cooperation across sectors.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 7, 2026
Malaysia is home to a…
Talks to focus on defence and strategic cooperation
According to a statement issued by PTI, PM Modi stated, “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.”
Also Read | India-US trade deal: Did you know these items will face ZERO tariffs in the US?
“We will aim to deepen our defence and security ties, enhance our economic and innovation partnership, and expand our collaboration into new domains”, he further added.
The Ministry of External Affairs indicated that India is looking at defence partnerships with Malaysia, including the possible sale of Dornier aircraft, along with maintenance support for Scorpene submarines and SU-30 aircraft.
Engagement with Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur
One of the highlights of the trip was the meeting between Modi and the Indian community in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia has a substantial Indian diaspora population, with a population of 2.9 million Indians, making Malaysia the third-largest Indian diaspora community in the world and holding the second-largest number of Persons of Indian Origin.
Also Read | What does the trade deal with the United States mean for India? Here's what we bet you didn't know
PM said he looks forward to participating in a community program that will allow him to interact with members of the diaspora groups and business people.
Strategic partnership and regional importance
This is Modi's third visit to Malaysia and the first visit since the two nations agreed in August of 2024 to elevate their relationship to the status of a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership”. Diplomatic relations between India and Malaysia date back to 1957; the relationship was upgraded to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership” during Modi's visit in 2015.
Malaysia continues to be an important ally for India in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific regions and has been important for India’s Act East Policy as well. The Torana Gate in Kuala Lumpur, established back in 2015, continues to stand today as a symbol of the growing ties between the two nations.
