Modi arrived in Malaysia on his first visit to the country in eight years and his first overseas trip of 2026. He was received at the airport by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who personally escorted him to the city. The two leaders later travelled together to the community event venue, underscoring the warmth of the bilateral relationship.
Speaking to the gathering, Modi said the planned rollout of UPI in Malaysia would strengthen financial connectivity and ease transactions for people and businesses in both countries. He noted that the gesture extended to him by the Malaysian prime minister reflected the respect for India and its community abroad.
Placing the visit in a broader context, Modi said India is now seen globally not just as a large market, but as a trusted hub for investment and development. He cited trade and investment agreements with partners such as the US, EU, UAE, Australia and the UK as evidence of India’s growing economic stature. He also recalled the Indian diaspora’s support during the 2001 Gujarat earthquake and its historical contribution to India’s freedom movement.
The visit carries strategic weight as Modi and Anwar Ibrahim are scheduled to hold bilateral talks to review progress under the India–Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, discussions will cover trade and investment, defence and security, digital technology, semiconductors, renewable energy, education, health, tourism and people-to-people ties. Both sides are also exploring cooperation in infrastructure projects and expanding scholarships, alongside plans to establish a Thiruvalluvar Centre for Indian Studies in Malaysia.
Malaysia is home to nearly 2.9 million people of Indian origin, making it the third-largest Indian diaspora globally. Officials said the community remains a strong bridge in bilateral relations rooted in shared history and culture.
The visit is also significant for India’s engagement with ASEAN, where Malaysia plays a key role. New Delhi is seeking support to modernise the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement amid concerns over a widening trade deficit. Analysts say the UPI announcement and broader economic agenda could reinforce India’s standing as a reliable digital and development partner in Southeast Asia.
