‘No double standards on terror’: Modi, Malaysia PM's new push on defence, chips, counter-terror cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim agreed to expand cooperation in defence, semiconductors, counter-terrorism and the Indo-Pacific.

• India and Malaysia to deepen ties in defence, security, semiconductors and trade
• Nations to enhance counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, maritime security
• India highlights Indo-Pacific partnership and strong cultural ties with Malaysia

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India and Malaysia on Sunday unveiled a series of initiatives to deepen cooperation in defence, security, semiconductors and trade after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur.

The agreements signal a strategic push to broaden bilateral ties at a time of shifting regional dynamics and growing focus on the Indo-Pacific.

Following the talks, Modi said India and Malaysia share a 'special relationship' and are committed to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

“Our message on terrorism is clear; no double standards, no compromise,” Modi said, reiterating India’s long-standing position as both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and maritime security.

He added that defence cooperation would be made 'more comprehensive' in the coming period.

Beyond security, Modi said India and Malaysia would advance partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital technologies and semiconductors, alongside cooperation in health and food security.

The semiconductor focus reflects India’s push to integrate with global supply chains and Malaysia’s role as a key manufacturing hub in the sector.

Modi also underlined India’s Indo-Pacific approach, calling the region “the growth engine of the world”. He said India remains committed to development, peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific in partnership with ASEAN.

Highlighting people-to-people ties, Modi noted that Malaysia is home to the world’s second-largest population of Indian origin. “Our civilisations, shared cultural heritage and democratic values bind us together,” he said.

The prime minister arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to a red-carpet reception and was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Putra ahead of the talks.

Anwar Ibrahim said India and Malaysia continue to expand collaboration in trade, investment, connectivity and defence, while praising India’s rapid rise on the global trade and economic front.

The visit underscores New Delhi’s broader outreach to Southeast Asia as it seeks to strengthen strategic, economic and technological partnerships in the region.

(With inputs from PTI)