KOTA KINABALU: The government of India’s decision to open a consulate of India here has stirred up a mix of positive and negative reactions among Sabahans. Its president, David Chan, said this move could spur investment flows, industrial cooperation, tourism development, and people-to-people ties. He said this move was a forward-looking vision by the Prime Minister, signalling strong confidence in Sabah’s economic potential and strategic importance within the Federation. However, there were many who voiced concern over what could happen if the Indian consulate were opened in Sabah. On Feb 7, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his decision to open up the Consulate in Kota Kinabalu during an official visit to Malaysia.

Source: The Star February 12, 2026 20:05 UTC