PM Modi to attend ASEAN Summit virtually this year, Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim confirms

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 47th ASEAN Summit virtually, rather than travelling to Kuala Lumpur, citing India’s Deepavali celebrations, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed on Thursday.

In a post on X, Anwar said Modi had called him on Wednesday to discuss strengthening Malaysia–India relations across trade, investment, technology, education, and regional security.

“He informed me that he will attend virtually due to the ongoing Deepavali celebrations in India at that time,” Anwar added, extending festive greetings to the Indian people.


The Prime Minister confirmed the development, stating that he was looking forward to attend the summit virtually.

"Had a warm conversation with my dear friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. Congratulated him on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and conveyed best wishes for the success of upcoming Summits. Look forward to joining the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, and to further deepening of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," said Modi in a post on X.


The decision comes ahead of the summit scheduled for October 26–28, where External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to represent India on-site.

India has been a dialogue partner of ASEAN since 1995 and a summit-level partner since 2002, with ties spanning trade, defence, and regional security.

Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and ASEAN–India cooperation.

“Malaysia will remain committed to strengthening Malaysia–India relations and further enhancing ASEAN–India cooperation towards a more peaceful and prosperous region,” he said.


Ibrahim has emphasised that the summit will serve as a platform to promote ASEAN’s centrality and Malaysia’s commitment to moderation on the global stage.

He stated that the summit will reinforce ASEAN's role in regional and global affairs, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability.