Kuala Lumpur, February 6: The Indian Community in Malaysia is bustling with preparations to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is set to embark on a two-day official visit from February 7 to 8. This visit, at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, is generating significant enthusiasm among Indian expatriates and is expected to strengthen India-Malaysia relations.
During his visit, PM Modi is anticipated to discuss several key issues, including trade, finance, security, and cultural cooperation. Ramesh Kodammal, Chairman of the ASEAN India Economic Council (AIEC), stated that the Malaysian government and its people are warmly welcoming PM Modi.
“This long-awaited visit has created immense excitement among the people who are eager to see, hear, and meet PM Modi. It presents a golden opportunity to elevate India-Malaysia relations to new heights,” Kodammal remarked. He noted that bilateral trade between the two countries is projected to reach approximately $20 billion in 2023-24, with expectations for further growth. Additionally, trade relations between India and ASEAN, as well as India and Malaysia, continue to strengthen.
An Indian community member expressed, “We are extremely excited to see PM Modi here. I was part of his visit ten years ago, and his return to Malaysia, home to the world’s second-largest Indian community, shows his commitment to strengthening bilateral and cultural ties.”
Another expatriate added, “It is a matter of great pride and joy for us that PM Modi is coming here. This is a golden platform for us. The Malaysian Bharatanatyam Dance Association is preparing a special performance that will showcase various dance styles in a single choreography.”
Cultural programs are being grandly organized to welcome PM Modi, with around 800 artists and dancers rehearsing classical and fusion performances, including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and ballet.
One artist shared, “We have been practicing for weeks for this presentation. We have created a fusion of Kathak and ballet that will last about two minutes. We hope PM Modi will enjoy our performance.”
A choreographer mentioned, “Preparations have been underway for quite some time. Four of my students are part of this presentation. They are all senior secondary students with busy schedules, yet we have practiced as much as possible.”
During this visit, Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, focusing on strengthening trade, finance, and overall strategic partnerships.