India-Malaysia Defence Cooperation: A Growing Strategic Bond
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kuala Lumpur on February 7-8. This trip highlights the strengthening defence relationship between India and Malaysia. As the geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific shifts, both nations see the value in working together for mutual security.
With increasing competition at sea, India and Malaysia are expanding their collaboration in air and naval defence. P. Kumaran, the Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, noted the potential sale of Dornier aircraft and collaborations on Scorpene submarines. He mentioned upgrades for the SU-30 fighter jets, which both nations operate, as part of this growing relationship.
The history of India-Malaysia ties dates back to 2010 when they were elevated to a Strategic Partnership. By 2015, this had transformed into an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Recently, during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to India in 2024, both countries established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This budding relationship is enhanced by the significant Indian diaspora in Malaysia, which numbers around 2.75 million.
This partnership takes shape against the backdrop of a changing Indo-Pacific. China’s increasing naval presence in the South China Sea raises concerns about maritime stability. Malaysia’s location, especially near the vital Strait of Malacca, makes it crucial for maintaining a rules-based maritime order. For India, improved defence ties with Malaysia support its broader regional ambitions, particularly under its Act East Policy.
Defence ties have grown beyond just training and exchanges to focus on industrial cooperation. Discussions around aircraft sales and upgrades signal a shift from simple buyer-seller interactions to long-term partnerships. As India strives for self-reliance in defence with its ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, Malaysia finds value in diversifying its defence suppliers, moving away from reliance on a single source.
Naval cooperation is particularly significant. Malaysia is exploring options with Indian shipyards, recognizing India’s potential as a reliable shipbuilding partner. This collaboration not only strengthens security but also helps tackle issues such as piracy and illegal fishing, challenges thatASEAN countries face.
Former Indian diplomat Amit Dasgupta emphasized that India’s defence cooperation with Malaysia fits into its broader Indo-Pacific strategy. He pointed out that no country wants to rely solely on one nation’s defense capabilities. Any security arrangements formed are aligned with Malaysia’s interests, not aimed at countering China.
K. Yhome from the Asian Confluence think tank noted Malaysia’s recent launch of a new National Defence Industry Policy (NDIP). This policy aims to make the Malaysian defence sector more self-reliant and reduce dependence on any single nation.
Overall, the growing India-Malaysia defence collaboration reflects shared strategic goals, including support for a multipolar Asia and respect for national sovereignty. As challenges abound in the Indo-Pacific, this partnership offers both nations security benefits and contributes to regional stability.
For further insights on this dynamic relationship, refer to reports from the Ministry of External Affairs and recent updates on Malaysia’s defence policy discussions.
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