In a landmark move strengthening historical bonds and cultural ties, the High Commission of India in Malaysia has announced an expansion of eligibility for the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) program. Malaysian individuals of Indian origin can now register as OCI cardholders up to the sixth generation, extending a major lifeline of connection to their ancestral homeland.
This significant policy update follows the 22nd ASEAN–India Summit, attended virtually by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and a high-level meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan at the 47th ASEAN Summit this week.
In a further boost to bilateral relations—particularly in education and cultural exchange—India has committed an additional RM 3 million to the Indian Scholarship and Trust Fund (ISTF). This fund plays a crucial role in supporting Malaysian Indian students from lower-income families, providing one-time financial assistance each year to help them pursue their academic aspirations.
The High Commission also highlighted the appointment of Prof. A. Chellaperumal, a respected Indian scholar and anthropologist, who has joined Universiti Malaya this month as the ICCR Thiruvalluvar Chair of Indian Studies. This initiative stems from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement during Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s 2024 trip to India, marking a continued commitment to fostering cultural and academic bridges.
This series of announcements reinforces the deep-rooted relationship between India and Malaysia—one built on shared heritage, history, and an ever-evolving vision for future cooperation.
