Malaysia and India have reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation in healthcare, including traditional medicine, with a focus on addressing key medical needs across the region through joint initiatives.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the partnership reflects the shared goal of both countries to promote healthcare that is affordable, accessible and people-centric. A joint statement issued by the Foreign Ministry said Malaysia is working on the necessary arrangements to enable the future deployment of Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM) practitioners to Malaysia under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, and is holding active consultations with India.
The statement said the move is expected to support the resumption of TIM services at selected hospitals under Malaysia’s Health Ministry, complementing allopathic treatment as the country moves towards an integrated and holistic healthcare system.
Both leaders also noted ongoing cooperation in affordable healthcare and medicines, and welcomed discussions to enhance collaboration in drug regulation, mutual recognition of pharmacopoeia standards and the recognition of nursing services. They further welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in October 2025 between India’s Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and the University of Cyberjaya to promote research collaboration, training and academic exchanges.
The expanded cooperation underscores the growing depth of Malaysia–India relations and their shared commitment to strengthening regional health resilience through innovation, research and people-focused partnerships. The statement added that both countries have agreed to further streamline the mobility of workers and professionals, reflecting strong people-to-people ties.
Tourism was reaffirmed as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation. India welcomed the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, while Malaysia appreciated the ‘Incredible India’ tourism campaign. Both sides highlighted the importance of sustainable and inclusive tourism in supporting economic growth and mutual understanding.
The leaders also welcomed ongoing visa liberalisation measures that have boosted tourism and business travel, and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing air connectivity. In view of growing passenger demand, both governments agreed to deepen cooperation in civil aviation. Malaysia proposed enhancing existing air traffic rights, which India took note of.
The statement also noted that both leaders welcomed the operationalisation of the Thiruvalluvar Chair of Indian Studies at Universiti Malaya and the establishment of the Thiruvalluvar Centre at the university. Prime Minister Anwar also welcomed the announcement of Thiruvalluvar Scholarships for Malaysian nationals.
