Modi lauds Malaysia’s Indian community for preserving culture and strengthening India–Malaysia ties before his Kuala Lumpur visit
PETALING JAYA: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the contributions of the Indian community in Malaysia ahead of his planned official visit to Kuala Lumpur in early February, describing the diaspora as a vital bridge in strengthening bilateral ties and promoting Indian culture.
Speaking on the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat (What’s On My Mind), he highlighted the role of Malaysians of Indian origin in preserving language, heritage and cultural traditions.
He said Malaysia has more than 500 Tamil schools where the language is used not only as a subject, but also as a medium of instruction for other disciplines.
“There is also a lot of focus on other Indian languages, including Telugu and Punjabi.”
Modi emphasised Malaysia’s vibrant Indian cultural scene, citing performances of the Odissi dance and Baul music.
He praised heritage initiatives organised by the Malaysia India Heritage Society (MIHS), a cultural group that strengthens historical, artistic and cultural ties between Malaysia and India.
“One society plays a major role in strengthening the historical and cultural ties between India and Malaysia.
“Last month, the Lal Paad Saree iconic walk was organised in Malaysia. Odissi dance and Baul music also won the hearts of the people.
“I am proud of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia. They are bringing India and Malaysia even closer.”
MIHS president Prabhakaran Nair said Modi’s acknowledgment was “a moment of quiet pride and collective fulfilment” for the society.
He added that it “affirms the value of working together with purpose, restraint and respect, guided by heritage, cultural understanding and goodwill.
“It reflects not the efforts of any one individual, but the shared commitment, discipline and sincerity of the executive council, the Malaysia–India Heritage Group and society members, each of whom has contributed through cooperation, dedication and steadfast support for our activities.”
Modi is planning a visit to Malaysia in early February, with diplomatic sources indicating that he may engage the Indian community during his trip.
The engagement forms part of his itinerary during a broader state visit that reflects growing diplomatic and cultural outreach between New Delhi and Kuala Lumpur.
The planned visit follows years of deepening ties under India’s Act East Policy and complements high-level diplomatic engagement, including ministerial exchanges and multilateral cooperation within Asean frameworks.
Modi last engaged Malaysia during the 22nd Asean-India Summit in October last year, which he attended virtually.
India was represented on the ground in Kuala Lumpur by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar while Modi addressed regional leaders remotely and reaffirmed India’s commitment to the Asean-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and cooperation across economic and strategic sectors.
