Malaysia's PM courts India with charm and Kishore Kumar song at Brics summit

Malaysia's Prime Minister used a high-profile appearance at the Brics gathering in New Delhi to lobby for deeper economic engagement with India, coupling diplomacy with a viral musical moment that captured attention across the subcontinent.

Bollywood ballad draws spotlight

Anwar's rendition of Kishore Kumar's 1965 hit "Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat", "Are you a dream or are you reality?": sung entirely from memory, was posted to his social media accounts and swiftly picked up by Indian news outlets. The video turned the Malaysian leader's visit into a trending topic, adding a personal touch to what was essentially a strategic economic mission.

Economic pivot behind the performance

The lighthearted recital belied the serious intent behind Anwar's trip to India from September 12-13, where Malaysia participated in the annual Brics summit as a partner country. The Malaysian Prime Minister met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi before embarking on a tour aimed at securing greater capital flows and business opportunities between the two nations. He pressed the case directly with both political leaders and captains of industry during his visit.

The push reflects Malaysia's broader strategy to expand its economic and strategic options amid intensifying rivalry between the United States and China, according to observers. By strengthening ties with India, Kuala Lumpur is working to diversify its partnerships at a time when geopolitical pressures are forcing countries across Asia to navigate an increasingly polarized international landscape.

Source: South China Morning Post