PM Modi in Malaysia: Trust Emerges as India's Premier Global Asset
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official two-day visit to Malaysia, emphasized that trust has become India's most powerful currency on the global stage. His remarks came on Saturday in Kuala Lumpur, where he was warmly received by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the airport, setting the tone for strengthened bilateral ties.
India's Economic Metamorphosis and Global Partnerships
Addressing a vibrant gathering of the Indian diaspora, PM Modi underscored India's remarkable economic evolution over the past decade. "In one decade, India has witnessed a massive transformation. Previously ranked as the 11th largest economy globally, we are now knocking on the doors of the Top 3 and stand as the world's fastest-growing major economy," he declared with conviction.
He highlighted how India's perception has shifted from merely being a vast market to becoming a central hub for investment and trade. "Earlier, India was seen just as a huge market. Now, we are a trusted partner for growth, with countries actively seeking trade agreements with us," Modi stated, referencing recent pacts with nations such as the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the European Union, and the United States.
Strengthening Cultural and Academic Bonds
In a heartfelt appeal to the approximately three million-strong Indian community in Malaysia, many of whom trace their ancestry to Tamil Nadu, PM Modi announced initiatives to bolster cultural heritage. "Inspired by the centuries-old presence of the Tamil diaspora here, we have established the Thiruvalluvar Chair at the University of Malaya and will now set up a Thiruvalluvar Centre to further strengthen our shared heritage," he revealed. This chair aims to promote academic and cultural exchanges, focusing on Indian studies.
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim echoed these sentiments, recalling the ancient connections between the two nations that predate modern diplomatic frameworks. "I am personally excited to have a great friend from India joining us. India is among Malaysia's top trading partners, with over 1.5 million Indian visitors in 2025 alone, showcasing the deep people-to-people ties," Ibrahim remarked.
Strategic Discussions and Future Collaborations
The leaders are scheduled to hold bilateral talks on Sunday, with New Delhi eyeing opportunities in the defence sector. Potential collaborations include the sale of Dornier aircraft and maintenance services for Scorpene submarines and SU-30 aircraft, as outlined by the Ministry of External Affairs.
This visit marks PM Modi's third trip to Malaysia and the first since the elevation of bilateral relations to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' in August 2024. Malaysia holds significance as a key partner in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions, integral to India's Act East Policy.
Historical Context and Forward-Looking Statements
Reflecting on the steady progress in India-Malaysia relations, PM Modi, in his departure statement, expressed optimism about enhancing the 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 affirmed.
This engagement follows previous interactions, including a meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and PM Modi's virtual participation in the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic momentum.
