Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Malaysia underscores the strengthening bond between the two nations, with both leaders emphasizing shared values and a commitment to mutual progress. Modi, on a two-day official visit, highlighted that India's success is intertwined with Malaysia's, and by extension, Asia's success.
The visit, which commenced on Saturday, February 7, 2026, is Prime Minister Modi's third to Malaysia and the first since the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024. Discussions with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are expected to focus on bolstering cooperation in defense and security, strengthening economic and innovation linkages, and expanding collaboration in emerging areas of mutual interest.
Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, a gesture symbolizing the close relationship between the two countries. The reception included vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the shared heritage of India and Malaysia.
Addressing the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur at a community reception titled “Selamat Datang Modi Ji,” Prime Minister Modi spoke of the deep cultural and economic ties binding the two nations. He acknowledged Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's goodwill gestures, including his wishes following the success of Chandrayaan-3. Modi stated that the guiding principle of the India-Malaysia relationship is "IMPACT," which stands for India-Malaysia Partnership for Advancing Collective Transformation. This encompasses the speed of relations, the scale of ambitions, and the benefit to the people of both nations, ultimately benefiting all of humanity.
Economic and technological cooperation is a significant aspect of the growing relationship. Modi noted that over 100 Indian IT companies are operating in Malaysia, creating thousands of jobs. Digital cooperation is also gaining momentum, with India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) soon to be launched in Malaysia. Furthermore, India played a role in establishing Malaysia's first and Asia's largest insulin manufacturing facility. The Malaysia-India Digital Council is also forging new paths for digital collaboration.
Prime Minister Modi recognized the Indian community in Malaysia, which numbers nearly three million, as a "living bridge" between the two countries, emphasizing their valuable contribution to Malaysia's development and their role in strengthening bilateral ties.
The visit also includes the 10th India–Malaysia CEO Forum, fostering greater economic collaboration. Discussions between the two Prime Ministers are expected to cover a wide range of topics, including trade and investment, defense and security, digital technologies, renewable energy, and people-to-people exchanges. Regional and global issues of mutual interest are also likely to be addressed.
Malaysia is a key partner for India in ASEAN, and the relationship is a cornerstone of India's Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific strategy, and Vision MAHASAGAR, which promotes maritime security and shared prosperity. Officials have stated that Prime Minister Modi's visit demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia and reinforcing cooperation with ASEAN, opening new avenues for collaboration and bringing tangible benefits to both nations.