In a strong and unified message, Malaysia and India have jointly condemned cross-border terrorism, vowing to strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts. The pronouncement came during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to Malaysia on February 8, 2026, where he held bilateral meetings with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The two leaders unequivocally denounced terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, emphasizing a "zero tolerance" approach. They called for concerted international efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner. This joint stance signals a reinforced commitment to regional security and stability.
During the meetings, both Prime Ministers agreed to counter radicalization and violent extremism, combat the financing of terrorism, and prevent the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes. Cooperation will be enhanced through information and knowledge sharing, exchange of best practices, and capacity building. Recognizing the interconnectedness of terrorism and transnational organized crime, the leaders also pledged to cooperate in addressing transnational organized crime, including through sharing information and best practices.
The joint statement is a clear indication that Malaysia has prioritized its bilateral relationship with India. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation in countering terrorism, including within the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
India and Malaysia's defense relationship has evolved into a sophisticated operational partnership, demonstrated by the establishment of the Strategic Affairs Working Group (SAWG) and the Su-30 Forum. Malaysia will host a Counter-Terrorism Table-Top Exercise later in 2026 under the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) framework, co-chaired by India.
The condemnation of cross-border terrorism arrives amidst a broader effort to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. Modi's visit served to solidify the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) established in August 2024, expanding collaboration beyond traditional trade to include areas like semiconductors and security. The leaders focused on energy, semiconductors, and defense, including collaboration on solar energy, green hydrogen, and clean tech; strengthening value chains, innovation, and workforce development; regular exercises; defense industry collaboration; and counter-terrorism efforts.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1957, Malaysia and India have fostered a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. This has grown into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024. Bilateral trade between the two countries has been steadily growing, reaching US$20.01 billion in FY 2023-24. Malaysia has emerged as India's 16th largest trading partner, while India ranks among the top 10 trading partners for Malaysia.
The strengthened stance against cross-border terrorism sends a clear message of unity and resolve in the face of evolving security challenges.