PM Modi in Malaysia to strengthen bilateral ties

Kuala Lumpur, February 8, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day official visit to Malaysia on Sunday, during which India and Malaysia agreed to strengthen cooperation across key sectors including trade, defence, technology and regional security.

During talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Several memoranda of understanding were exchanged to enhance collaboration in areas such as semiconductors, digital technology, disaster management and labour mobility.

Both sides emphasised the need to expand bilateral trade and investment and discussed cooperation in emerging technologies and digital payments. Regional and global issues, including developments in the Indo-Pacific and ASEAN cooperation, also figured prominently in the discussions.

As part of the visit, Modi interacted with the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur, describing them as a vital link between India and Malaysia and highlighting the shared cultural heritage between the two nations. The visit underscored India’s focus on strengthening ties with Southeast Asia and further consolidating its engagement with ASEAN member countries.

Parliament Budget Session Day 8: Both Houses Adjourned Till February 9 Amid Opposition Protests

New Delhi, February 6, 2026: Proceedings in both Houses of Parliament were adjourned till Monday, February 9, on the eighth day of the ongoing Budget Session, as persistent protests by Opposition members continued to disrupt legislative business.

The Lok Sabha was adjourned shortly after it convened at 11 am, with Opposition MPs raising slogans and staging protests, preventing the House from taking up scheduled discussions on the Union Budget. Despite repeated appeals from the Chair to restore order, the disruptions continued, forcing an adjournment for the day.

Speaker Om Birla expressed concern over the repeated loss of parliamentary time due to disruptions and urged members to allow the House to function smoothly. However, the protests persisted even after brief suspensions, leading to the decision to adjourn proceedings till February 9. The Rajya Sabha also witnessed similar scenes, with continuous sloganeering by Opposition members disrupting Question Hour and other listed business. The Upper House was subsequently adjourned for the day.

Opposition parties have been protesting over multiple issues, including alleged denial of speaking opportunities and procedural matters, leading to repeated stalemates since the start of the session. With repeated adjournments, substantial parliamentary time has been lost, affecting discussions on key legislative and financial business scheduled during the Budget Session.