Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced that India will soon open a new consulate in Malaysia, a move aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties, while also highlighting the Union government’s “historic decision” to extend Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card eligibility to Malaysian citizens of Indian origin up to the sixth generation.

Addressing the Indian diaspora at a community event in Kuala Lumpur during his two-day visit to the Southeast Asian nation, the Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to its overseas community. “India will always embrace you with open arms. That is why we made a historic decision just a few months ago. We extended the OCI card eligibility to Malaysian citizens of Indian origin up to the 6th generation,” he said.

PM Modi also announced the introduction of Thiruvalluvar Scholarships to enable Malaysian students to pursue studies in India. “We have been supporting the Indian Scholarships Trust Fund. Now, we are also going to give Thiruvalluvar Scholarships for students to study in India. And we look forward to seeing you in the Know India Program. You would be happy to know that we will soon be opening a new Consulate of India in Malaysia. This will bring us even closer,” he added.

As part of the visit, the Prime Minister toured a special Person of Indian Origin (PIO) History and Heritage Exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, organised to showcase the legacy, resilience and contributions of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia over generations. He praised the community’s efforts in curating the exhibition, describing it as an inspiring tribute.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Today’s community programme in Kuala Lumpur included an exhibition on the Indian community in Malaysia. The Indian Government’s decision of extending OCI card eligibility to Malaysian citizens of Indian origin up to the 6th generation has caused immense happiness among the diaspora. In the times to come, an Indian consulate will also be opened in Malaysia, thus bringing our nations even closer.”

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The Ministry of External Affairs also underlined the historical links underpinning India-Malaysia relations. “Historical bonds at the core of India-Malaysia friendship! Together with PM Ibrahim Anwar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi walked through an inspiring PIO History and Heritage Exhibition — a tribute to the rich legacy, resilience, and contributions of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia and their journey across generations,” the MEA said in a post on X.

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Prime Minister Modi’s visit is aimed at deepening the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with a focus on enhanced cooperation across economic, digital, cultural and people-to-people domains.