Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Malaysia has significantly strengthened the ties between the two nations, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim describing their meeting as "very vital, very strategic, and critical". The two leaders witnessed the signing of 11 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and related agreements, signaling a deepened commitment to collaboration across various sectors.
The agreements span a wide range of areas, including disaster management, anti-corruption measures, audiovisual co-production, semiconductors, healthcare, vocational training, security, and UN peacekeeping. A key agreement was the Framework Agreement on the International Big Cats Alliance. The MoUs reflect the comprehensive strategic partnership between Malaysia and India, which was elevated in August 2024.
The signing ceremony, held at the Seri Perdana Complex, followed a bilateral meeting between the two leaders focusing on trade and investment, defense, tourism, connectivity, agriculture, education, and regional and international developments. Economic ties between Malaysia and India continue to strengthen, with total bilateral trade reaching RM79.49 billion in 2025. This growth was driven by Malaysian exports of palm oil, agricultural products, and electrical and electronic goods, alongside imports of agricultural, petroleum, and chemical products.
During a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of the meeting and the rapidly expanding relationship between the two countries. He highlighted the long-standing relations since 1957 and the elevation to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, noting the deep historical ties, strong people-to-people linkages, and ever-expanding economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi also acknowledged the cultural connections between the two countries, particularly the shared love for the Tamil language. He noted the vibrant role of Tamil in Malaysia's schools, media, and cultural activities, expressing confidence that the Audio Visual Agreement would further strengthen these bonds through film and music, especially Tamil films.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in countering terrorism, including through the UN and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). They unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism, and called for zero tolerance and concerted international efforts to combat it.
The agreements also include cooperation in digital payments, technology exchange, capacity building, education, scientific research, skill development, and cultural ties. Prime Minister Modi announced that India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) would soon be introduced in Malaysia, enabling seamless digital payments. He also announced a new Indian consulate and enhanced OCI benefits.
These MoUs are viewed as a significant step towards expanding collaboration across strategic, economic, and social sectors, reflecting the enduring and multifaceted partnership between Malaysia and India.