Indian forwards squandered several chances to allow Malaysia a 1-1 draw in their first match of the women's four-nation Singapore International Hockey Challenge at Delta Stadium in Singapore.
The hosts drew first blood through a penalty corner conversion by Nadia Abd Rahman in the fourth minute.
The lead lasted only seven minutes before Joydeep Kaur restored parity through a short corner.
The Malaysians midfield repeatedly thwarted raids by Indian strikers.
Indian coach G S Bangu was unhappy with the performance of his players, saying poor conversion prevented the team from gaining full points.
"Our penalty corners were not good enough. Many of these Malaysians are seniors when you consider their experience," he said.
"Releasing the ball quickly is an area we need to improve upon," Bangu said.
In another match, Japan routed hosts Singapore 8-0 to garner three points.
Malaysians are at the top of the points tally with four points from two matches. India are third with one point.