Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Malaysia as he arrived in Kuala Lumpur for a two-day official visit, marking another milestone in India–Malaysia relations.

Several community leaders and public representatives praised Modi’s presence and the strengthening of bilateral ties under his leadership.

PRIMAS Deputy President C Krishnan said India–Malaysia relations have grown “by leaps and bounds” since Modi assumed office. “We, as Malaysian Indians, see that our relationship is far better now. We find it much easier to travel to India than before. Many hurdles have been made easier. We are proud and happy to see this event. Although he is the Indian Prime Minister, we felt like he is one of our own,” he said.

Tamil Nadu BJP Secretary A Ashvathaman said Modi’s emphasis on Tamil heritage resonates deeply with the diaspora. “Wherever Modi ji goes, he speaks about Tamil culture's pride. That is the reason why Tamil diaspora loves him,” he said.

Malaysian MP Saraswathy Kandasamy said Modi’s visit had generated renewed excitement among people of Indian origin. “His speech was really overwhelming. This set the tone that he was in high spirits and in form to deliver what he wanted to say. He had a strong message for Malaysian Indians,” she said.

Perak state assembly member Wasanthee Sinnasamy said the visit reaffirmed the strong cultural and historical bond between the two nations. “ We share a lot of things, including the food, clothing, and culture. This has bound us together for so many years,” she said.

Prime Minister Modi described the diaspora as a vital bridge between the two countries. In a post on X, he wrote: “Our diaspora continues to be a vital bridge between India and Malaysia. It was a delight to interact with them in Kuala Lumpur.”

Earlier, Modi was received at the airport by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who greeted him warmly. A large gathering from the Indian community in Malaysia turned up to welcome the Prime Minister, with schoolchildren waving Indian and Malaysian flags as both leaders walked down the red carpet and later travelled together to the official hotel.

In his departure statement, Modi said he was visiting Malaysia at the invitation of his “friend”, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and looked forward to advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

“The historic ties between India and Malaysia have seen steadfast progress in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and to further enhancing our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. We will aim to deepen our defence and security ties, enhance our economic and innovation partnership, and expand our collaboration into new domains,” he said.

Modi also said he was eager to meet the Indian community in Malaysia, which numbers nearly three million and is among the largest Indian diasporas globally. “Their immense contribution to Malaysia's progress and their role as a living bridge between our two nations provide a strong foundation to our historic friendship,” he said.

The Prime Minister’s visit will include bilateral talks with his Malaysian counterpart, focusing on defence ties, economic cooperation and people-to-people engagement.

ANI