Malaysia, India step up cooperation across sectors

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who freshly concluded a three-day official visit to India, has noted that during his visit, investment commitments totalling RM4.5 billion were secured from various sectors and companies in the South Asian nation.

Malaysia has obtained potential trade worth RM8 billion ($1.83 billion) in the palm oil and palm oil-based product, chemicals and chemical product, oil and gas, as well as aircraft spare part sectors, Malaysia’s national news agency Bernama quoted the PM as saying.

Total trade between Malaysia and India amounted to RM72.31 billion in 2023.

Anwar said his visit to India also saw the signing of eight memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the two governments as well as seven business-to-business MoUs between the countries, adding that during his meeting with Modi, both sides have agreed to boost comprehensive partnership in all areas, including digital, tourism, education, research and culture.

On the possibility of Malaysia extending the period of free visa granted to Indians, Anwar said Malaysia will give that facility if there is a similar response from the Indian government.