Defence and security ties in focus as PM Modi begins two-day Malaysia visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday departed for a two-day official visit to Malaysia, during which he will hold talks with his Malaysian counterpart, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This marks Modi’s third visit to the Southeast Asian nation as prime minister and his first since India and Malaysia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024.

“I am embarking on an official visit to Malaysia today at the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim,” PM Modi said in his departure statement. He noted that the historic ties between India and Malaysia have witnessed steadfast progress in recent years.

“I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and further enhancing our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. We will aim to deepen our defence and security ties, enhance our economic and innovation partnership, and expand our collaboration into new domains,” he said.

During the visit, the Prime Minister will also engage with members of the Indian community, as well as industry and business leaders in Malaysia. With a population of nearly three million, the Indian diaspora in Malaysia is among the largest in the world.

“Their immense contribution to Malaysia’s development and their role as a living bridge between our two nations provide a strong foundation for our historic friendship,” Modi said.

The visit will also coincide with the 10th India–Malaysia CEO Forum, aimed at strengthening business and investment ties between the two countries.

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that India and Malaysia share long-standing bonds rooted in historical, civilisational, and cultural links.

“The India–Malaysia relationship is multi-faceted and steadily expanding. The Prime Minister’s visit provides an opportunity for both leaders to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation — including trade and investment, defence and maritime security, digital and financial technologies, energy, healthcare, education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people ties — while charting a future course of engagement for mutual benefit,” the ministry said.