INDIAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Malaysia today for a two-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Modi's aircraft touched down at the Bunga Raya Complex, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), at 4.40pm, where he was warmly received by Anwar.
Also present to welcome him was Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, the minister in attendance during the visit.
The Indian leader inspected a guard of honour mounted by two officers and 26 personnel from the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, led by Capt Mohd Afiq Aiman Mohd Zulkifli.
He was then greeted by 100 students from Kolej Tunku Kurshiah, Sekolah Menengah Sains Banting, and Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi, who waved Malaysian and Indian flags in a colourful display, reported Bernama.
A series of cultural performances reflecting Malaysia's diverse society marked Modi's arrival.
The reception began with the blowing of the tetuang, followed by a Madani drumming performance featuring 12 musicians playing traditional instruments from various ethnic communities, including the jidor, Chinese drum, and dhol, symbolising harmony and the nation's rich cultural heritage.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by a performance from 40 dancers from Artistana Istana Budaya, who showcased choreographed routines in multiracial-themed costumes.
Modi later accompanied Anwar in a vehicle to a community event at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre.
The visit reciprocates Anwar's official trip to India in August 2024 and marks Modi's third visit to Malaysia, the first since both countries elevated their bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in August last year.
It is expected to strengthen relations and deepen cooperation across areas of mutual interest, building on the longstanding friendship between Malaysia and India since diplomatic relations were established in 1957.
According to Wisma Putra, Modi will hold bilateral talks with Anwar tomorrow, during which both leaders are expected to review the CSP's progress and outline new areas for collaboration.
The discussions will cover trade and investment, defence and security, labour, tourism, connectivity, agriculture, education, and regional and international issues of shared concern.
Following the talks, the two leaders will witness the signing of multiple agreements and cooperation documents, reflecting closer institutional ties.
These include Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on combating corruption, training and certification standards for seafarers, and disaster management.
Other documents include agreements on audiovisual production, labour collaboration, semiconductor and healthcare exchanges, national security, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Additionally, both leaders will oversee the Exchange of Letters on United Nations peacekeeping cooperation and the submission of the Framework Agreement on the International Big Cats Alliance.
India and Malaysia share deep historical, civilisational, and cultural links, underpinned by a strong Indian diaspora of about 2.9 million in Malaysia, the third largest globally.
Economic ties continue to grow, with total bilateral trade reaching RM79.49 billion (US$18.59 billion) in 2025. Malaysia's exports amounted to RM52.3 billion (US$12.24 billion), mainly palm oil, agricultural products, and electrical and electronic goods, while imports totalled RM27.19 billion (US$6.35 billion), comprising agricultural, petroleum, and chemical products. – February 7, 2026
