Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, February 7, 2026, for a two-day official visit to Malaysia aimed at bolstering trade and security ties between the two nations. He was received at Kuala Lumpur International Airport by his Malaysian counterpart, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, signaling a strengthened commitment to the bilateral relationship. The two leaders shared a ride from the airport, demonstrating the close rapport between them.
Modi's visit, made at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, seeks to build upon the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between India and Malaysia. Prior to his departure, Modi conveyed his anticipation for the visit, stating it would enhance cooperation across multiple sectors and deepen defense and security ties, while also expanding economic and innovation partnerships into new domains.
Both Prime Ministers attended a reception event and are scheduled to hold bilateral talks in Putrajaya on Sunday. These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, including trade and investment, defense, security and maritime cooperation, digital and financial technology, energy, healthcare, and tourism. Following the meeting, both leaders will witness the exchange of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in areas such as anti-corruption efforts, certification and watchkeeping for seafarers, and disaster management, according to the Malaysian Foreign Ministry. Additional agreements are expected for collaboration on labor, semiconductors, healthcare, national security, and vocational education and training.
The 10th India-Malaysia CEOs Forum is scheduled to coincide with the visit. The visit also provides an opportunity for both leaders to review bilateral cooperation including trade and investment, defence, security and maritime cooperation, digital and financial technology, energy, healthcare and tourism, the external affairs ministry said. India and Malaysia are expected to finalize several agreements, including one between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Malaysia's PayNet, and explore ways to step up defence and security cooperation during the visit, senior officials have said.
In 2025, bilateral trade between Malaysia and India reached $18.59 billion (RM79.49 billion), with Malaysia's exports to India totaling $12.24 billion (RM52.30 billion) and imports amounting to $6.35 billion (RM27.19 billion). Both countries are keen to explore potential collaborations in semiconductors, defense, and other fields.
Prime Minister Modi also addressed the Indian diaspora during his visit. Malaysia is home to approximately 2.75 million people of Indian origin, constituting about 9% of the country's total population. Modi acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian community to Malaysia's progress, recognizing them as a vital link between the two nations and a strong foundation for their historic friendship.