Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says bilateral relations are at a historic peak, driven by strong economic cooperation and a close personal rapport with Narendra Modi.
KUALA LUMPUR: Bilateral ties between Malaysia and India have reached a historic pinnacle.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the relationship is driven by renewed economic momentum and a strong personal rapport with his Indian counterpart.
Describing Narendra Modi as a “great friend,” Anwar said he felt fortunate to share a close personal bond with the Indian leader. He stated this bond has helped translate diplomatic intent into tangible results.
“This is not merely a declaratory statement. It has produced results,” Anwar said in his keynote address at an event organised by the Malaysian Indian community yesterday.
He revealed that bilateral trade reached almost USD 19 billion in 2025. India now ranks among Malaysia’s top trading partners and is its largest trading partner in South Asia.
Total trade between the two countries reached RM79.49 billion last year. Anwar was speaking at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre with Prime Minister Modi also in attendance.
Anwar noted that Modi is among the first major leaders to visit as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. He said this marks a significant milestone in diplomatic engagements.
Reflecting on the nation’s foundations, he paid tribute to the Malaysian Indian community. He described them as an “integral partner” in the country’s development.
“When Malaysia embarked on the great project of building a nation from its diversity, the Indian community – my brothers and sisters – was an integral partner,” Anwar said.
He added that true nation-building happens “in the classrooms, in workplaces, and in our shared life”. He pointed to cultural heritage found in ‘Little India’ districts and shared celebrations like Deepavali.
Modi is on a two-day official visit to Malaysia at Anwar’s invitation. The visit reciprocates the Malaysian leader’s trip to India in August 2024.
Also in attendance were Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and senior government officials.
