Analysis of editorial from The Hindu newspaper on February 10, 2026
Back on track: On Malaysia-India ties
India and Malaysia have set about repairing ties during Prime Minster Narendra Modi visit
India-Malaysia TiesPM Modi Malaysia VisitAnwar IbrahimComprehensive Strategic PartnershipASEANBRICSCounter-terrorismSemiconductors
Sentences
Sentence 1 of 16
English Original
Making amendswasat the top of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24-hour visit to Kuala Lumpur over the weekendafter he had cancelled a planned trip to Malaysia last year, at short notice, to attend the ASEAN summit in October 2025.
Simple PastS + V + C + AdjunctMain Clause + Subordinate ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Making amends
Trying to improve or repair a relationship that was strained before
VerbWhat is happening
was
Represented or existed as the main focus
ComplementCompletes meaning
at the top of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24-hour visit to Kuala Lumpur over the weekend
The most important priority during PM Modi’s short trip to Malaysia’s capital
AdjunctAdditional info
after he had cancelled a planned trip to Malaysia last year, at short notice, to attend the ASEAN summit in October 2025
Following his previous decision to call off a scheduled visit with very little warning in 2025
Context and Background
PM Modi
In October 2025, Prime Minister Modi was scheduled to visit Malaysia to attend the ASEAN-India Summit but had to cancel it at the last minute due to domestic priorities. This cancellation was seen as a minor diplomatic setback, and the 2026 visit was intended to restore the momentum in bilateral ties.
Sentence 2 of 16
English Original
As a result,Mr. Modisaidthat he made Malaysia his first destination abroad in the new year.
Simple PastAdjunct + S + V + OMain Clause + Subordinate ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
AdjunctAdditional info
As a result
Consequently, or because of the need to repair ties after the previously cancelled trip
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Modi
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi
VerbWhat is happening
said
Stated or told the media and officials during his visit
ObjectWhat receives action
that he made Malaysia his first destination abroad in the new year
His decision to choose Malaysia for his very first foreign visit of 2026
Sentence 3 of 16
English Original
His talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim,who had visited India in 2024,resulted inMoUs,with plans to strengthen ties.
Simple PastS + Adjunct + V + O + AdjunctMain Clause + Relative ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
His talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim
The official discussions PM Modi had with the leader of Malaysia
AdjunctAdditional info
who had visited India in 2024
Mentioning that PM Ibrahim had already come to India for a visit two years earlier
VerbWhat is happening
resulted in
Led to or produced a specific outcome
ObjectWhat receives action
MoUs
Official written agreements between the two governments
AdjunctAdditional info
with plans to strengthen ties
Having the goal of making the relationship and cooperation between the two countries better
Context and Background
Anwar Ibrahim
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim visited New Delhi in August 2024. During that visit, both countries decided to elevate their relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ (CSP), focusing on areas like investment, defense, and digital economy. PM Modi’s return visit in 2026 builds on this foundation.
Sentence 4 of 16
English Original
Therewassome strain in India-Malaysia tiesin 2025 too—although Malaysia condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks,Mr. Ibrahimhad called fora “full and thorough enquiry” into the perpetrators and also for “de-escalation and meaningful dialogue between India and Pakistan”,which ruffled feathers in New Delhi.
Past Perfect and Simple PastS + V + C + Adjunct + Adjunct + S + V + O + AdjunctMain Clause + Subordinate ClausesCompound-Complex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
There
Used here as a placeholder to mean ‘at that time’ or to show existence
VerbWhat is happening
was
Existed or happened
ComplementCompletes meaning
some strain in India-Malaysia ties
Some difficulties and lack of friendliness in the relationship between the two countries
AdjunctAdditional info
in 2025 too
Including the previous year, 2025
AdjunctAdditional info
although Malaysia condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks
Even though Malaysia officially spoke against the violent attacks in Pahalgam
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Ibrahim
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim
VerbWhat is happening
had called for
Had publicly requested or asked for something to happen
ObjectWhat receives action
a “full and thorough enquiry” into the perpetrators and also for “de-escalation and meaningful dialogue between India and Pakistan”
A complete investigation into the killers and a request for India and Pakistan to stop fighting and start talking
AdjunctAdditional info
which ruffled feathers in New Delhi
This action made the Indian government in New Delhi feel annoyed or upset
Context and Background
Pahalgam Attack and India
In April 2025, a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killed several pilgrims. India blamed Pakistan based groups for the attack. When PM Anwar Ibrahim suggested an enquiry and dialogue with Pakistan, India saw it as an unwanted interference in its internal problems and its sovereign stance that ‘talks and terror cannot go together’.
Sentence 5 of 16
English Original
Hehad even offeredhis services to mediateif required,andin October 2025,had hostedPakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Shariffor an official visit.
Past PerfectS + V + O + Adjunct + Adjunct + V + O + AdjunctCoordinate ClausesCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
He
The Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim
VerbWhat is happening
had even offered
Had gone as far as suggesting that he could help
ObjectWhat receives action
his services to mediate
His help to act as a middleman to resolve the issues between India and Pakistan
AdjunctAdditional info
if required
If it was necessary or if India and Pakistan wanted his help
AdjunctAdditional info
in October 2025
During the month of October in the year 2025
VerbWhat is happening
had hosted
Had invited and received a high level guest for an official event
ObjectWhat receives action
Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif
The top leader of Pakistan, Shahbaz Sharif, who was Malaysia’s guest
AdjunctAdditional info
for an official visit
For a formal trip recognized by both governments
Context and Background
India
India has historically maintained that all issues with Pakistan, including the Kashmir dispute, are bilateral and must be resolved without the involvement of any third party. This stance is based on the 1972 Simla Agreement. Therefore, PM Ibrahim’s offer to ‘mediate’ was seen by India as a violation of this diplomatic principle.
Sentence 6 of 16
English Original
Itis,therefore,significantthat Mr. Modi set aside these concerns,andthat the joint statement said India and Malaysia condemned terrorism unequivocally “… including cross-border terrorism”.
Simple Present and Simple PastS + V + Adjunct + C + Adjunct + AdjunctMain Clause + Noun ClausesComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
It
Used here as a dummy subject to introduce the main idea of the sentence
VerbWhat is happening
is
Represents a present state or fact
AdjunctAdditional info
therefore
For that reason, or because of the past tensions mentioned earlier
ComplementCompletes meaning
significant
Meaningful, important, and worth noting
AdjunctAdditional info
that Mr. Modi set aside these concerns
The fact that Prime Minister Modi chose to ignore or move past the previous disagreements
AdjunctAdditional info
that the joint statement said India and Malaysia condemned terrorism unequivocally “… including cross-border terrorism”
The fact that both leaders officially agreed to strongly speak against all types of terrorism, especially the kind that crosses borders
Context and Background
The Importance of
For India, the inclusion of the term ‘cross-border terrorism’ in a joint statement is a major diplomatic victory. It signifies that the other country (Malaysia) acknowledges India’s long-standing concern that terrorism against India is supported from outside its borders. Previously, Malaysia had been more neutral or critical on this issue.
Sentence 7 of 16
English Original
India and Malaysiaalso discussedcounter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence and information sharingandcoordinating positions at the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force on the issue.
Simple PastS + V + OMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
India and Malaysia
The governments of both countries
VerbWhat is happening
also discussed
Included these topics in their official talks
ObjectWhat receives action
counter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence and information sharing
Working together to stop terrorism and sharing secret information about security threats
ObjectWhat receives action
coordinating positions at the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force on the issue
Agreeing to have the same or similar opinions and votes at major international organizations like the UN and FATF
Context and Background
The Role of FATF in Counter-Terrorism
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is a global watchdog that sets standards for countries to prevent illegal money from being used to fund terrorism. Coordinating positions at FATF helps India and Malaysia ensure that countries which support terrorism are held accountable through international pressure and ‘greylisting’.
Sentence 8 of 16
English Original
Other important decisionswerean MoU on semiconductors,building on cooperation between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia.
Simple PastS + V + C + AdjunctMain Clause + Participle PhraseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Other important decisions
Additional key agreements that were made during the visit
VerbWhat is happening
were
Existed as the following items
ComplementCompletes meaning
an MoU on semiconductors
A formal agreement to collaborate on the design and manufacturing of computer chips
AdjunctAdditional info
building on cooperation between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia
Developing further from the work already started by these two educational and technical institutions
Context and Background
The Strategic Value of Semiconductors
Semiconductors are the ‘brains’ of modern electronics, from smartphones to cars. India is currently pushing the ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ to become a global hub for chip design and manufacturing. Partnering with Malaysia, which has a well-established semiconductor industry, helps India achieve its goal of technology self-reliance.
Sentence 9 of 16
English Original
Building ties in trade, defence, energy and digital technologieswere highlightedby the two sides,that took care not to discuss contentious issues publicly, such as the continued stay of preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India on UAPA charges.
Building ties in trade, defence, energy and digital technologies
The act of creating stronger connections in business, military, power, and computer science
VerbWhat is happening
were highlighted
Were made the main focus of the meetings
AdjunctAdditional info
by the two sides
By both the Indian and Malaysian governments
AdjunctAdditional info
that took care not to discuss contentious issuespublicly, such as the continued stay of preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India on UAPA charges
Both leaders made an effort to avoid talking in public about difficult topics like the religious teacher Zakir Naik who lives in Malaysia but is wanted for crimes in India
Context and Background
The Zakir Naik Issue and Diplomatic Maturity
Zakir Naik is a controversial Indian preacher who left India in 2016 and was granted permanent residency in Malaysia. India has sought his extradition over charges of money laundering and hate speech. While the issue remains a major friction point, both countries decided to not let it derail their broader strategic relationship during this visit, showing high-level diplomatic maturity.
Sentence 10 of 16
English Original
The two sidesalso side-steppedtheir differences over multilateral issues.
Simple PastS + V + OMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The two sides
The representatives and leaders of India and Malaysia
VerbWhat is happening
also side-stepped
Avoided dealing with or discussing a difficult issue directly
ObjectWhat receives action
their differences over multilateral issues
The points on which they disagree regarding international organizations and global agreements
Sentence 11 of 16
English Original
Mr. Modi’s decision to skip the ASEAN summit despite accepting the invitationhad also dealta blowto negotiations on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
Past PerfectS + V + O + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Modi’s decision to skip the ASEAN summit despite accepting the invitation
The choice made by Prime Minister Modi to not attend the ASEAN meeting, even though he had earlier said he would come
VerbWhat is happening
had also dealt
Had also caused or resulted in a negative effect
ObjectWhat receives action
a blow
A sudden negative event or a setback that causes disappointment
AdjunctAdditional info
to negotiations on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)
Specifically affecting the talks about making changes to the trade deal between India and the ASEAN countries
Context and Background
The Importance of AITIGA Review
The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) was signed in 2009. India has been pushing for a review of this agreement to make it more balanced, as India’s trade deficit with ASEAN countries has grown significantly. PM Modi’s absence from the 2025 summit was seen as a lack of urgency on India’s part to resolve these trade issues.
Sentence 12 of 16
English Original
Critical comments by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal about the FTA, as “badly negotiated” and “silly”, and his reference to ASEAN countries as “B-teams” to Chinastill rankled.
Simple PastS + VMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Critical comments by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal about the FTA, as “badly negotiated” and “silly”, and his reference to ASEAN countries as “B-teams” to China
The negative and disrespectful things said by India’s Commerce Minister about the trade deal and the suggestion that ASEAN countries are just helpers for China
VerbWhat is happening
still rankled
Continued to cause a feeling of anger, annoyance, or resentment long after they were spoken
Context and Background
Piyush Goyal
In late 2024, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal criticized the existing FTA with ASEAN, calling it ‘one-sided’ and ‘badly negotiated’ by previous governments. His ‘B-team’ comment suggested that some ASEAN nations allow Chinese goods to enter India through their borders to bypass duties. These remarks caused significant diplomatic discomfort in the region.
Sentence 13 of 16
English Original
Mr. Modi’s visitwasan important reminder of India’s commitmenteven as New Delhi moves ahead with FTAs with Europe and the U.S.
Simple Past and Simple PresentS + V + C + AdjunctMain Clause + Subordinate ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Modi’s visit
The official trip made by Prime Minister Modi to Malaysia
VerbWhat is happening
was
Represents or serves as
ComplementCompletes meaning
an important reminder of India’s commitment
A significant message that India still cares about and is dedicated to its relationship with the region
AdjunctAdditional info
even as New Delhi moves ahead with FTAs with Europe and the U.S
At the same time that the Indian government is making progress on new trade deals with European countries and America
Context and Background
India
Under its ‘Act East Policy’, India aims to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian nations. However, India is also simultaneously negotiating Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with major Western powers like the UK, the European Union, and the United States. This visit was meant to reassure Malaysia and ASEAN that India’s focus on the West does not mean it is abandoning its Eastern partners.
Sentence 14 of 16
English Original
Indiawill chairthe BRICS Summitlater this year—in the joint statement,Indiamerely“noted”Malaysia’s aspirations to become a member.
Simple Future and Simple PastS + V + O + Adjunct + Adjunct + S + Adjunct + V + OCoordinate ClausesCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
India
The country of India, represented by its government
VerbWhat is happening
will chair
Will lead and host the meeting as the chairperson
ObjectWhat receives action
the BRICS Summit
The major conference of the BRICS group of nations
AdjunctAdditional info
later this year
In the coming months of 2026
AdjunctAdditional info
in the joint statement
In the official paper released by both countries after the visit
SubjectWho/What
India
The Indian side in the discussions
AdjunctAdditional info
merely
Only or just (used here to show that India did not offer full support)
VerbWhat is happening
“noted”
Officially acknowledged or recorded the request without giving a definite ‘yes’ or ‘no’
ObjectWhat receives action
Malaysia’s aspirations to become a member
The strong desire and hope of Malaysia to join the BRICS group
Context and Background
BRICS Membership and
Membership in groups like BRICS requires the consensus of all existing members. When a country ‘notes’ another’s aspiration in a joint statement, it is a polite way of saying the request has been received but not yet formally approved. India is cautious about fast-tracking new members as it wants to maintain the group’s strategic balance.
Sentence 15 of 16
English Original
Mr. Ibrahimwill be invitedas Malaysia is a BRICS partner country,whileIndonesiahas becomea member.
Simple Future and Present PerfectS + V + Adjunct + S + V + CMain Clause + Subordinate ClausesComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Ibrahim
The Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim
VerbWhat is happening
will be invited
Will be asked to attend the BRICS Summit in India (Passive voice)
AdjunctAdditional info
as Malaysia is a BRICS partner country
Because Malaysia currently has the status of a supporting partner in the BRICS group
SubjectWho/What
Indonesia
The neighboring Southeast Asian country of Indonesia
VerbWhat is happening
has become
Has already joined and is now officially part of the group
ComplementCompletes meaning
a member
A full participant with full rights in the BRICS organization
Context and Background
Status of Malaysia and Indonesia in BRICS
In recent years, BRICS has expanded to include many ‘Global South’ nations. Indonesia joined as a full member in 2025, giving it a stronger voice in the group’s decisions. Malaysia, meanwhile, has been accepted as a ‘partner country’, which allows it to participate in certain discussions but not vote on official group policies yet.
Sentence 16 of 16
English Original
Mr. Modi’s visit,which was welcomed warmly by Mr. Ibrahim,maythuslead tocloser coordinationbut alsolaythe groundfor closer ties between India and the ASEAN region, in terms of their shared geographies, and in dealing with the larger changes in the world.
Simple PresentS + Adjunct + V + O + Adjunct + V + O + AdjunctMain Clause + Relative ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Mr. Modi’s visit
The official trip made by Prime Minister Modi to Malaysia
AdjunctAdditional info
which was welcomed warmly by Mr. Ibrahim
Mentioning that the host Prime Minister received PM Modi with great kindness and respect
VerbWhat is happening
may thus lead to
Could potentially result in or cause a better situation in the future
ObjectWhat receives action
closer coordination
Working more closely together in a planned and synchronized way
VerbWhat is happening
lay the ground
To create the foundation or the right conditions for something to develop
AdjunctAdditional info
for closer ties between India and the ASEAN region, in terms of their shared geographies, and in dealing with the larger changes in the world
Specifically helping to improve the relationship with Southeast Asian neighbors because they live in the same part of the world and face the same global challenges
Context and Background
India-ASEAN Strategic Convergence
Malaysia is a key member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Strengthening ties with Malaysia is not just a bilateral goal but also a pathway for India to deepen its engagement with the entire Southeast Asian region. This is crucial for regional security and for addressing global shifts like the rise of the Indo-Pacific and China’s growing influence.
Sentence 1 of 16
Sentence 1 of 16
Making amendswasat the top of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24-hour visit to Kuala Lumpur over the weekendafter he had cancelled a planned trip to Malaysia last year, at short notice, to attend the ASEAN summit in October 2025.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Making amends
Trying to improve or repair a relationship that was strained before
Verb
was
Represented or existed as the main focus
Complement
at the top of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24-hour visit to Kuala Lumpur over the weekend
The most important priority during PM Modi’s short trip to Malaysia’s capital
Adjunct
after he had cancelled a planned trip to Malaysia last year, at short notice, to attend the ASEAN summit in October 2025
Following his previous decision to call off a scheduled visit with very little warning in 2025
Sentence 2 of 16
As a result,Mr. Modisaidthat he made Malaysia his first destination abroad in the new year.
Phrase Breakdown
Adjunct
As a result
Consequently, or because of the need to repair ties after the previously cancelled trip
Subject
Mr. Modi
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi
Verb
said
Stated or told the media and officials during his visit
Object
that he made Malaysia his first destination abroad in the new year
His decision to choose Malaysia for his very first foreign visit of 2026
Sentence 3 of 16
His talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim,who had visited India in 2024,resulted inMoUs,with plans to strengthen ties.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
His talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim
The official discussions PM Modi had with the leader of Malaysia
Adjunct
who had visited India in 2024
Mentioning that PM Ibrahim had already come to India for a visit two years earlier
Verb
resulted in
Led to or produced a specific outcome
Object
MoUs
Official written agreements between the two governments
Adjunct
with plans to strengthen ties
Having the goal of making the relationship and cooperation between the two countries better
Sentence 4 of 16
Therewassome strain in India-Malaysia tiesin 2025 too—although Malaysia condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks,Mr. Ibrahimhad called fora “full and thorough enquiry” into the perpetrators and also for “de-escalation and meaningful dialogue between India and Pakistan”,which ruffled feathers in New Delhi.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
There
Used here as a placeholder to mean ‘at that time’ or to show existence
Verb
was
Existed or happened
Complement
some strain in India-Malaysia ties
Some difficulties and lack of friendliness in the relationship between the two countries
Adjunct
in 2025 too
Including the previous year, 2025
Adjunct
although Malaysia condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks
Even though Malaysia officially spoke against the violent attacks in Pahalgam
Subject
Mr. Ibrahim
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim
Verb
had called for
Had publicly requested or asked for something to happen
Object
a “full and thorough enquiry” into the perpetrators and also for “de-escalation and meaningful dialogue between India and Pakistan”
A complete investigation into the killers and a request for India and Pakistan to stop fighting and start talking
Adjunct
which ruffled feathers in New Delhi
This action made the Indian government in New Delhi feel annoyed or upset
Sentence 5 of 16
Hehad even offeredhis services to mediateif required,andin October 2025,had hostedPakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Shariffor an official visit.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
He
The Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim
Verb
had even offered
Had gone as far as suggesting that he could help
Object
his services to mediate
His help to act as a middleman to resolve the issues between India and Pakistan
Adjunct
if required
If it was necessary or if India and Pakistan wanted his help
Adjunct
in October 2025
During the month of October in the year 2025
Verb
had hosted
Had invited and received a high level guest for an official event
Object
Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif
The top leader of Pakistan, Shahbaz Sharif, who was Malaysia’s guest
Adjunct
for an official visit
For a formal trip recognized by both governments
Sentence 6 of 16
Itis,therefore,significantthat Mr. Modi set aside these concerns,andthat the joint statement said India and Malaysia condemned terrorism unequivocally “… including cross-border terrorism”.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
It
Used here as a dummy subject to introduce the main idea of the sentence
Verb
is
Represents a present state or fact
Adjunct
therefore
For that reason, or because of the past tensions mentioned earlier
Complement
significant
Meaningful, important, and worth noting
Adjunct
that Mr. Modi set aside these concerns
The fact that Prime Minister Modi chose to ignore or move past the previous disagreements
Adjunct
that the joint statement said India and Malaysia condemned terrorism unequivocally “… including cross-border terrorism”
The fact that both leaders officially agreed to strongly speak against all types of terrorism, especially the kind that crosses borders
Sentence 7 of 16
India and Malaysiaalso discussedcounter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence and information sharingandcoordinating positions at the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force on the issue.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
India and Malaysia
The governments of both countries
Verb
also discussed
Included these topics in their official talks
Object
counter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence and information sharing
Working together to stop terrorism and sharing secret information about security threats
Object
coordinating positions at the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force on the issue
Agreeing to have the same or similar opinions and votes at major international organizations like the UN and FATF
Sentence 8 of 16
Other important decisionswerean MoU on semiconductors,building on cooperation between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Other important decisions
Additional key agreements that were made during the visit
Verb
were
Existed as the following items
Complement
an MoU on semiconductors
A formal agreement to collaborate on the design and manufacturing of computer chips
Adjunct
building on cooperation between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia
Developing further from the work already started by these two educational and technical institutions
Sentence 9 of 16
Building ties in trade, defence, energy and digital technologieswere highlightedby the two sides,that took care not to discuss contentious issues publicly, such as the continued stay of preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India on UAPA charges.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Building ties in trade, defence, energy and digital technologies
The act of creating stronger connections in business, military, power, and computer science
Verb
were highlighted
Were made the main focus of the meetings
Adjunct
by the two sides
By both the Indian and Malaysian governments
Adjunct
that took care not to discuss contentious issues publicly, such as the continued stay of preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India on UAPA charges
Both leaders made an effort to avoid talking in public about difficult topics like the religious teacher Zakir Naik who lives in Malaysia but is wanted for crimes in India
Sentence 10 of 16
The two sidesalso side-steppedtheir differences over multilateral issues.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The two sides
The representatives and leaders of India and Malaysia
Verb
also side-stepped
Avoided dealing with or discussing a difficult issue directly
Object
their differences over multilateral issues
The points on which they disagree regarding international organizations and global agreements
Sentence 11 of 16
Mr. Modi’s decision to skip the ASEAN summit despite accepting the invitationhad also dealta blowto negotiations on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Mr. Modi’s decision to skip the ASEAN summit despite accepting the invitation
The choice made by Prime Minister Modi to not attend the ASEAN meeting, even though he had earlier said he would come
Verb
had also dealt
Had also caused or resulted in a negative effect
Object
a blow
A sudden negative event or a setback that causes disappointment
Adjunct
to negotiations on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)
Specifically affecting the talks about making changes to the trade deal between India and the ASEAN countries
Sentence 12 of 16
Critical comments by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal about the FTA, as “badly negotiated” and “silly”, and his reference to ASEAN countries as “B-teams” to Chinastill rankled.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Critical comments by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal about the FTA, as “badly negotiated” and “silly”, and his reference to ASEAN countries as “B-teams” to China
The negative and disrespectful things said by India’s Commerce Minister about the trade deal and the suggestion that ASEAN countries are just helpers for China
Verb
still rankled
Continued to cause a feeling of anger, annoyance, or resentment long after they were spoken
Sentence 13 of 16
Mr. Modi’s visitwasan important reminder of India’s commitmenteven as New Delhi moves ahead with FTAs with Europe and the U.S.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Mr. Modi’s visit
The official trip made by Prime Minister Modi to Malaysia
Verb
was
Represents or serves as
Complement
an important reminder of India’s commitment
A significant message that India still cares about and is dedicated to its relationship with the region
Adjunct
even as New Delhi moves ahead with FTAs with Europe and the U.S
At the same time that the Indian government is making progress on new trade deals with European countries and America
Sentence 14 of 16
Indiawill chairthe BRICS Summitlater this year—in the joint statement,Indiamerely“noted”Malaysia’s aspirations to become a member.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
India
The country of India, represented by its government
Verb
will chair
Will lead and host the meeting as the chairperson
Object
the BRICS Summit
The major conference of the BRICS group of nations
Adjunct
later this year
In the coming months of 2026
Adjunct
in the joint statement
In the official paper released by both countries after the visit
Subject
India
The Indian side in the discussions
Adjunct
merely
Only or just (used here to show that India did not offer full support)
Verb
“noted”
Officially acknowledged or recorded the request without giving a definite ‘yes’ or ‘no’
Object
Malaysia’s aspirations to become a member
The strong desire and hope of Malaysia to join the BRICS group
Sentence 15 of 16
Mr. Ibrahimwill be invitedas Malaysia is a BRICS partner country,whileIndonesiahas becomea member.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Mr. Ibrahim
The Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim
Verb
will be invited
Will be asked to attend the BRICS Summit in India (Passive voice)
Adjunct
as Malaysia is a BRICS partner country
Because Malaysia currently has the status of a supporting partner in the BRICS group
Subject
Indonesia
The neighboring Southeast Asian country of Indonesia
Verb
has become
Has already joined and is now officially part of the group
Complement
a member
A full participant with full rights in the BRICS organization
Sentence 16 of 16
Mr. Modi’s visit,which was welcomed warmly by Mr. Ibrahim,maythuslead tocloser coordinationbut alsolaythe groundfor closer ties between India and the ASEAN region, in terms of their shared geographies, and in dealing with the larger changes in the world.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Mr. Modi’s visit
The official trip made by Prime Minister Modi to Malaysia
Adjunct
which was welcomed warmly by Mr. Ibrahim
Mentioning that the host Prime Minister received PM Modi with great kindness and respect
Verb
may thus lead to
Could potentially result in or cause a better situation in the future
Object
closer coordination
Working more closely together in a planned and synchronized way
Verb
lay the ground
To create the foundation or the right conditions for something to develop
Adjunct
for closer ties between India and the ASEAN region, in terms of their shared geographies, and in dealing with the larger changes in the world
Specifically helping to improve the relationship with Southeast Asian neighbors because they live in the same part of the world and face the same global challenges
Reading Comprehension
Practice questions based on this editorial
Reading Comprehension - Malaysia-India Ties
Practice reading comprehension questions based on the editorial about the repair of bilateral relations between India and Malaysia.
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