In a gesture reflecting both diplomacy and tradition, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate virtually in the 47th ASEAN Summit set to take place in Kuala Lumpur this weekend. Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the update after receiving a personal call from Modi discussing the future of Malaysia-India bilateral ties.
“Prime Minister Modi informed me that he will be attending virtually, as the Deepavali celebrations are still ongoing in India at that time,” Anwar shared in a Facebook post.
During their conversation, both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening the strategic and comprehensive partnership between Malaysia and India—spanning across trade, investment, technology, education, and regional security cooperation.
Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing relations with India while deepening ASEAN-India cooperation, working towards a more peaceful, resilient, and prosperous regional community.
The ASEAN Summit, hosted at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from October 26 to 28, marks another pivotal gathering under Malaysia’s chairmanship. Several world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, are confirmed to attend.
In a world where traditions and diplomacy intersect, Modi’s virtual participation serves as a reminder that cultural heritage can coexist with global engagement — a symbol of how technology connects nations even when festivities keep leaders close to home.