Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim on 12 September 2026 during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The meeting brought together the heads of government of two countries seeking to deepen their bilateral relationship across multiple sectors. Malaysia was participating in the summit as a Partner Country.
What was discussed
The two leaders reviewed the outcomes of PM Modi’s visit to Malaysia in February 2026 and assessed how bilateral cooperation is progressing. Their conversation covered several areas of mutual interest:
- Trade and investment
- Defence and security
- Semiconductors
- Infrastructure
- Digital economy
- Energy
- Fintech
- Education
- Tourism
- People-to-people ties
Malaysia’s Prime Minister confirmed his country’s agreement to the opening of India’s Consulate General in Kota Kinabalu, located in the state of Sabah. This represents a formal diplomatic expansion in the region.
PM Modi acknowledged Malaysia’s role in supporting closer ties between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Both leaders also discussed regional and international matters of shared concern and reaffirmed their commitment to the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
What this means for you
The establishment of a new Indian consulate in Kota Kinabalu will make it easier for Indian citizens in that region to access consular services without traveling long distances. Strengthened cooperation in semiconductors, digital economy and fintech could create business and employment opportunities for Indian professionals and companies operating in or trading with Malaysia. Improved defence and security ties reflect both countries’ interest in maintaining regional stability, which affects trade routes and economic activity that ordinary citizens depend on.