Malaysia matters to India, here’s why

The recent 2-day visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7 and 8 February is vital for India for several reasons.

The two day visit was marked by the gathering of 15,000 Indians in MINES was attended by both Modi and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

In addition to that the 10th India Malaysia CEO Forum was also held.

The visit comes after both Malaysia and India became comprehensive strategic partners and Anwar

India needs Malaysia so that it can implement its Act East policy.

According to Statecraft produced by India Today, upto 40 percent global trade goes through the Straits of Malacca. The straits is controlled by Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.

Control of the straits means that Malaysia is powerful.

Malaysia being a member of ASEAN is also a major reason for the closer ties.

ASEAN is a regional bloc made up of 10 nations and it is a huge market. India needs Malaysia on its side to access the Southeast Asian market.

The dominant presence of China in Southeast Asia is also a ‘dragon’ in the room for India as Southeast Asia becomes the ring that sees US-China competition.

India’s presence would be to offer a third option.

It would not compete with China directly but it will offer options for Malaysia and ASEAN nations.

The same documentary sees the two day visit as being vital for Anwar too since ethnic Indian votes would be key in ensuring Anwar’s coalition return to power.