NEW DELHI January 15, 2026 – In a display of strengthening diplomatic ties between Malaysia and India, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, the Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat), met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC).
The meeting took place at the Indian Parliament, coinciding with the inauguration of the prestigious conference, which brings together parliamentary leaders from 53 Commonwealth nations to discuss pressing issues in democratic governance.
Johari Abdul shared his enthusiasm for the encounter on social media, stating: “Berbesar hati bertemu TYT Narendra Modi, Perdana Menteri India di Parlimen India sempena CSPOC ke-28. Semoga India dan Malaysia akan terus menjalin hubungan persahabatan dan kerjasama strategik yang membawa manfaat kepada kedua-dua negara dan rakyatnya.” This translates to: “Delighted to meet His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, at the Indian Parliament on the occasion of the 28th CSPOC. May India and Malaysia continue to foster friendly relations and strategic cooperation that benefits both countries and their people.”
The 28th CSPOC, hosted by India from January 14 to 16, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi in the historic Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan. The event focuses on topics such as the responsible use of artificial intelligence in parliamentary functions, the impact of social media on public discourse, enhancing citizen participation in legislatures, and the security and well-being of parliamentarians. This marks India’s fourth time hosting the biennial conference, following previous editions in 1971, 1986, and 2010.
The bilateral interaction underscores the ongoing commitment to parliamentary diplomacy within the Commonwealth framework. Malaysia and India, both key players in the region, have historically collaborated on trade, defense, and cultural exchanges. This meeting is expected to pave the way for deeper strategic partnerships, particularly in areas like technology, education, and sustainable development.
On the first day of the conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who is chairing the event, held bilateral discussions with counterparts from countries including Canada, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Maldives, Kenya, Grenada, and South Africa. While specific details of Johari’s discussions with Modi were not disclosed, the encounter highlights India’s role as a hub for global parliamentary dialogue.
The CSPOC, established in 1969, serves as a platform for sharing best practices among Commonwealth parliaments, independent of other organizations like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. The previous conference was held in Uganda in 2024, where similar themes of inclusivity and institutional resilience were addressed.
As the conference continues into its final day, observers anticipate further announcements on collaborative initiatives that could benefit Commonwealth members, including enhanced cooperation between Malaysia and India amid evolving global challenges.
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