6 Feb : Preparations are underway across Malaysia to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Indian diaspora is eagerly anticipating his two-day official visit on February 7 and 8.
The Prime Minister was invited by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The visit is expected to bolster India–Malaysia relations in trade, finance, security, and cultural collaboration.
Ramesh Kodammal, Chairman of the ASEAN India Economic Council (AIEC), stated that the Malaysian authorities are preparing enthusiastically for the Prime Minister’s arrival. He added that the citizens are equally excited and looking forward to the visit.
“This long-awaited visit has many people eager to meet, see and hear him. It is a great opportunity to take Malaysia–India relations to greater heights,” Kodammal said. He highlighted that bilateral trade reached approximately $20 billion in 2023–24 and is expected to expand, alongside growing collaboration between India, ASEAN, and Malaysia.
Members of the Indian community expressed delight at the Prime Minister’s return to Malaysia after ten years.
One resident commented, “We are extremely excited to be able to see PM Modi tomorrow. I was part of his visit 10 years ago, and for him to return to Malaysia after a decade. Home to the second-largest Indian diaspora—truly shows his intention to strengthen the connection between India and Malaysia, both bilaterally and culturally.”
Another added, “We are thrilled to have PM Modi come here and be together with our Prime Minister and meet us all and give us this golden grand platform. On behalf of the Malaysia Bharatanatyam Dance Association, we are thrilled to present a piece. This piece is actually performed in one choreography, but different styles of dance will be presented.”
Cultural Celebrations Take Centre Stage
Preparations are underway for a grand reception featuring roughly 800 artists performing classical and fusion dances, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and ballet. Weeks of rehearsals have gone into creating a fusion choreography combining Kathak and ballet, designed as a two-minute presentation honouring both art forms.
A choreographer explained, “Preparations have been going on for quite some time. These are my four students, and we are doing a fusion of Kathak and ballet. It was quite a challenge because all four of them are senior secondary students at Garden International School, and they have very hectic schedules. Still, we tried to fit in as much practice as possible.”
During his stay, PM Modi will hold discussions with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The talks will focus on trade, finance, and reinforcing strategic cooperation.
The visit is expected to further consolidate economic and cultural ties. It will also highlight the Indian diaspora’s pivotal role in deepening India–Malaysia relations.
