Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Malaysia has effectively promoted the upgrading of the comprehensive strategic partnership into tangible results.Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described his talks with Prime Minister Modi as “very important, very strategic and critical” in advancing bilateral relations. He pointed out that relations between the two countries will be improved in 2024 and said that both sides are committed to “expeditious” implementation of the agreement. Prime Minister Modi called the relationship “special”, highlighting shared maritime interests, cultural ties and democratic values. He also reiterated India’s firm stance on terrorism, saying there should be no “double standards and no compromise”.
The two leaders held delegation-level talks in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed the exchange of 11 documents as well as several important announcements. Sign important agreements1. Audio-visual co-production agreementAn agreement to promote film and media co-productions with the aim of promoting cultural exchange and creative industry cooperation.2. Cooperation in disaster managementThe MoU aims to enhance coordination between the two governments on disaster relief, preparedness and capacity building.3. Combating and preventing corruptionThe MoU provides for cooperation in anti-corruption efforts, including information sharing and best practices.4. United Nations peacekeeping cooperation (exchange of letters)Expand existing understanding and deepen cooperation in United Nations peacekeeping operations.5. Semiconductor cooperation (exchange of letters)A framework to promote cooperation in the semiconductor industry, a priority area for both economies.6. International Big Cat Alliance Framework AgreementMalaysia joins India’s IBCA initiative to expand cooperation in wildlife conservation.7. Social Security Cooperation (ESIC-PERKESO)A Memorandum of Cooperation to promote social security benefits and coordination of Indian citizens working in Malaysia.8. Vocational Education and Training (TVET)Exchange views to enhance cooperation in skills development and technical training.9. Security cooperation between National Security CouncilsExchange of letters formalizing closer engagement on national security matters.10. Health and Medical CooperationAn agreement to deepen cooperation in healthcare, medical research and public health systems.11. Report of the 10th Malindo CEO ForumA joint report has been submitted to senior officials outlining recommendations to boost trade and investment ties.Main announcementsIn addition to the signed documents, both parties also announced several initiatives:
- India establishes consulate general in Malaysia.
- Creation of a dedicated Thiruvalluvar Center at the University of Malaya.
- Thiruvalluvar scholarship organization for Malaysian nationals.
- A cross-border payment agreement has been reached between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and Malaysian PAYNET.
- Memorandum of Understanding between Cyberjaya University and Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Training and Research.
This is Prime Minister Modi’s third visit to Malaysia and his first visit since 2024.
