KOTA KINABALU: Establishing an Indian Consulate in Sabah will strengthen bilateral ties with Malaysia while opening up greater opportunities for tourism, trade and cultural exchanges, said India’s Acting High Commissioner to Malaysia Hitesh Rajpal.
“Once the Consulate is set up, the new diplomatic mission will strengthen India’s presence and engagement in Sabah,” he said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the move during his visit to Malaysia in February this year.
Rajpal said the enduring relationship between India and Malaysia is built on centuries-old civilisational links and strengthened by Malaysia’s vibrant Indian community, providing a strong foundation for cultural and wellness collaborations.
“Our ties continue to flourish across multiple spheres, and events such as this enhance people-to-people connections between the two countries while exemplifying the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Malaysia,” he said at the curtain-raiser event for the International Day of Yoga 2026 celebration here, which was officiated by Nominated Assemblyman Datuk Roger Chin, recently.
The event was organised by the Sabah India Association together with Peace House Kota Kinabalu, the Brahma Kumaris Foundation and the Secretariat of Indian Arts, Culture, Spirituality and Heritage of Universiti Malaysia Sabah.
Rajpal added that initiatives such as the International Day of Yoga celebration continue to deepen people-to-people ties while reinforcing the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Malaysia.
He encouraged Malaysians to incorporate yoga into their daily routines, saying just 15 to 20 minutes of practice each day could bring significant physical and mental health benefits.
“I encourage everyone, especially senior citizens and young people, to make yoga a regular part of their lives.
“Let us not limit yoga to the celebrations on June 21 but practise it throughout the year for better physical strength and mental wellness,” he said.
Rajpal also called on participants to promote this year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, within their families and communities.
He reaffirmed the High Commission of India’s commitment to supporting cultural and wellness initiatives that deepen the longstanding friendship between India and Malaysia.
He hoped the celebration would pave the way for more collaborative programmes between India and Sabah in the years ahead.
Asked when the Indian Consulate would be set up, Rajpal said the Indian Government is awaiting decision and approval from the State government.
