Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia): Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Malaysia on Friday for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of defence, security and economic cooperation. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim personally received PM Modi at the airport, greeting him warmly as a large gathering from the Indian diaspora turned out to welcome the Indian leader.
Schoolchildren waving Indian and Malaysian flags lined the ceremonial welcome as the two leaders walked down the red carpet. In a symbolic gesture reflecting the close ties between the two countries, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Ibrahim later travelled together in the same vehicle to the official hotel.
Ahead of his arrival, PM Modi described the visit as one undertaken at the invitation of a “friend” and underlined India’s intent to further deepen engagement with Malaysia. In his departure statement, he said India and Malaysia share historic ties that have seen steady progress in recent years.
“I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and to further strengthening our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Modi said. He added that the talks would focus on enhancing defence and security cooperation, expanding economic and innovation partnerships, and exploring collaboration in new areas.
The Prime Minister also expressed eagerness to engage with the Indian community in Malaysia, which numbers nearly three million and represents one of the largest Indian diasporas globally. He noted that the community’s contribution to Malaysia’s development serves as a strong bridge between the two nations.
The visit, scheduled from February 7 to 8, will include bilateral talks between the two leaders. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this is PM Modi’s third visit to Malaysia and his first since India-Malaysia relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024.
India is also exploring defence collaboration opportunities during the visit, including the potential sale of Dornier aircraft, maintenance support for Scorpene submarines, and cooperation related to SU-30 aircraft. PM Modi is also expected to interact with members of the Indian diaspora and business leaders during his stay.
