Trust has become India's strongest currency: PM Modi

Modi Hails Trust as Key to India's Global Rise

Prime Minister Narendra Modi captivated a large gathering of the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a powerful message about India's evolving stature on the world stage.

Speaking at a community event alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Modi emphasized how trust has emerged as India's most valuable asset in international relations. He pointed to a series of recent trade agreements with major economies like the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU, and the US as clear signs of this growing confidence.

These pacts, he noted, reflect a shift in perception: India is no longer viewed merely as a vast consumer market but as a dynamic hub for investment, manufacturing, and trade. The audience of around 10,000 responded with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the resonance of his words among the overseas Indian community.

Economic Transformations Driving New Partnerships

Modi detailed India's remarkable progress over the past decade, painting a picture of a nation on the cusp of greatness.

From being the 11th largest economy, India is now poised to enter the top three globally, fueled by rapid growth in key sectors. The 'Make in India' initiative has borne fruit, positioning the country as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer and boosting defence exports nearly 30 times since 2014. India has also emerged as the third-largest startup ecosystem worldwide.

Advancements in infrastructure, solar energy, digitalization, and emerging technologies have made India an irresistible destination for investors. The world's largest digital public infrastructure, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), handles nearly half of global real-time digital transactions, showcasing India's innovative edge.

These developments not only strengthen bilateral ties but also open doors for collaborations, such as the upcoming UPI integration in Malaysia and the establishment of a new Indian consulate there.

Strengthening India-Malaysia Bonds

The Prime Minister's visit underscores the deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia, elevated during Anwar Ibrahim's trip to New Delhi in 2024.

Whether it is the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU or US, countries have trade deals with India. Trust has become India's strongest currency. India was earlier seen as just a huge market but is now considered a hub of investment and trade. India is seen as a trusted partner for growth.

Modi introduced 'IMPACT'—India-Malaysia Partnership for Advancing Collective Transformation—as the guiding principle for future cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. Bilateral trade has surged to $19 billion in 2025, with initiatives like linking UPI to Malaysia's PayNet system set to simplify cross-border payments for businesses, students, and travelers.

India has contributed to Malaysia's first and Asia's largest insulin manufacturing facility, while over 100 Indian IT firms operate in the country. Modi also highlighted the strong cultural ties, noting Malaysia's large Indian-origin community and urging diaspora members to promote tourism by inviting Malaysian friends to experience 'Incredible India,' including the acclaimed Vande Bharat trains. Anwar Ibrahim echoed this sentiment, calling Modi a great friend and advocating for dialogue and cooperation over confrontation.

These efforts promise mutual prosperity, with opportunities for Indian farmers, entrepreneurs, MSMEs, startups, and fishermen through enhanced global partnerships.

In summary, PM Modi's address in Malaysia spotlighted trust as the cornerstone of India's international success, backed by economic milestones and expanding trade networks. The visit reinforced India-Malaysia ties, signaling a bright future of collaborative growth and shared achievements.