Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced that an Indian consulate will soon be opened in Malaysia, further strengthening ties between the two nations.
PM Modi announced during an Indian community reception, Selamat Datang Modiji, in Kuala Lumpur, which featured a special cultural performance by 800 artistes — the largest performance of Indian traditional dances in Malaysia, recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records.
"Today's community programme included an exhibition on the Indian community in Malaysia. The Indian Government's decision to extend OCI card eligibility to Malaysian citizens of Indian origin up to the sixth generation has caused immense happiness among the diaspora. In the times to come, an Indian consulate will also be opened in Malaysia, bringing our nations even closer," PM Modi posted on X.
The initiative was received warmly by members of the Indian community, who gave a rousing welcome to PM Modi along with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the consulate will strengthen cooperation between India and Malaysia and expand India's outreach to the Indian diaspora.
PM Modi highlighted that Malaysia has the second-largest Indian-origin community in the world and emphasized the deep cultural connections between the two countries. "The Indian-origin community is a living bridge linking the two countries. Shared traditions like Roti Canai and Malabar Parotta, coconut, spices, and Teh Tarik, connect hearts in both Kuala Lumpur and Kochi," he said.
He also paid tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and recalled the history of the Indian National Army in Malaysia. PM Modi lauded the contributions of the Tamil diaspora in Malaysia and announced the setting up of a dedicated Thiruvalluvar Centre at Universiti Malaya. Earlier, a Thiruvalluvar Chair of Indian Studies was created at the same university, and Thiruvalluvar scholarships will facilitate academic exchanges between the two countries.
Highlighting India's rapid economic growth, PM Modi said that the country has jumped from being the 11th largest economy to the fourth, soon to be the third largest. He also pointed out that 50% of global real-time digital payments occur in India and announced that UPI-based payment facilities would soon be available in Malaysia, boosting tourism and commerce.
PM Modi emphasized people-to-people connections as the cornerstone of India-Malaysia friendship. He praised the Indian diaspora for preserving traditions over centuries and serving society in various fields. He also highlighted cultural ties, noting the influence of saints like Thiruvalluvar and Swami Vivekananda, and celebrations such as Thaipusam at Batu Caves.
Addressing India-Malaysia relations, PM Modi introduced IMPACT – India-Malaysia Partnership for Advancing Collective Transformation – as the guiding framework of bilateral cooperation. "India's success is Malaysia's success, and it is Asia's success. That is why IMPACT remains the guiding word of our relationship," he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted India's trade partnerships, stating, "India is seen as a trusted partner for growth. Whether it is the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU, or the USA, countries have trade deals with India. Trust has become India's strongest currency."
During his visit, PM Modi was warmly received by Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysian Minister of Human Resources Ramanan Ramakrishnan, and Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman bin Awang Sauni. The visit seeks to further strengthen the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2024, and reflects India's commitment to deepening ties under the Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific vision, and Vision MAHASAGAR.
PM Modi concluded by inviting everyone to travel and experience Incredible India, emphasizing that people-to-people connections are key to the enduring friendship between India and Malaysia.
(With inputs from IANS)
