New Delhi/Kuala Lumpur, October 23, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join the 47th ASEAN Summit virtually rather than traveling to Malaysia. The decision comes as Deepavali celebrations coincide with the important regional gathering. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed this development after receiving a phone call from PM Modi on October 22. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India on-ground at the prestigious summit scheduled from October 26 to 28 in Kuala Lumpur.
Why PM Modi ASEAN Summit Attendance Goes Virtual
The PM Modi ASEAN summit participation through digital means reflects thoughtful diplomatic planning. Deepavali, India’s festival of lights, falls on October 20-21 this year. Additionally, Chhath Puja celebrations extend from October 25 to 28. These festivals hold immense cultural significance across India, particularly in states like Bihar where assembly elections are approaching. Therefore, the Prime Minister chose to honor these traditions while maintaining India’s commitment to regional partnerships.
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim graciously accepted the decision. He extended Deepavali greetings to Modi and the Indian people. Moreover, both leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations during their phone conversation. They emphasized trade, investment, technology, education and regional security cooperation.
“I respect that decision and extend my Deepavali greetings to him and the entire people of India.” – Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim
Jaishankar Takes Center Stage at Kuala Lumpur
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will lead India’s physical presence at the summit. His participation ensures continuity in diplomatic engagement. Furthermore, India has conveyed officially that Jaishankar will represent the nation at ASEAN meetings. This arrangement maintains India’s active involvement in crucial regional discussions.
The summit brings together over 30 heads of state and government. US President Donald Trump will attend physically. Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other world leaders are also expected. Consequently, the gathering represents a significant opportunity for diplomatic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
India-ASEAN Relations: A Strategic Cornerstone
The PM Modi ASEAN summit connection extends beyond annual meetings. India’s relationship with ASEAN began as a sectoral partnership in 1992. Subsequently, it evolved into full dialogue partnership in December 1995. By 2002, the ties reached summit-level partnership status. The relationship was elevated to strategic partnership in 2012.
Today, ASEAN stands as one of India’s largest trade and investment partners. Bilateral trade has doubled over the past decade, surpassing USD 130 billion. The ten ASEAN member countries – Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia – collectively represent a dynamic economic bloc.
India’s “Act East Policy” places ASEAN at its heart. This policy emphasizes connectivity, commerce and culture. Additionally, it aligns with ASEAN’s vision for regional integration and prosperity. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework guides cooperation across multiple sectors including defense, maritime security, digital economy and climate action.
What This Means for Regional Diplomacy
Virtual participation by PM Modi ASEAN summit demonstrates modern diplomatic flexibility. Technology enables leaders to engage meaningfully despite physical constraints. However, some analysts note that personal interactions at summits facilitate bilateral meetings and informal discussions. Nevertheless, India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality remains unwavering.
The summit will focus on regional peace, economic resilience and inclusive growth. Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship theme is “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” These priorities align closely with India’s development vision. Thus, productive outcomes are expected despite the virtual format.
Cambodia Visit Also Postponed
Initially, PM Modi ASEAN summit attendance was planned alongside a visit to Cambodia. However, with the Malaysia trip shelved, the Cambodia visit stands postponed too. This decision reflects careful prioritization of diplomatic commitments. Both visits will likely be rescheduled at mutually convenient times.
Cambodia and India share warm bilateral ties. The postponement does not diminish this relationship. Instead, it allows for better-planned engagement when circumstances permit fuller attention to bilateral priorities.
Historical Context of PM Modi’s Summit Participation
Since 2014, Prime Minister Modi has consistently led Indian delegations to ASEAN summits. His personal engagement demonstrates the importance India attaches to Southeast Asian partnerships. Notably, he skipped only one East Asia Summit previously – the 17th edition in November 2022 in Cambodia’s Phnom Penh.
The PM Modi ASEAN summit tradition reflects continuity in India’s foreign policy orientation. His direct involvement has strengthened people-to-people ties and business connections. Moreover, his vision for the Indo-Pacific emphasizes cooperation over competition. This approach resonates strongly with ASEAN’s outlook on regional architecture.
Strengthening Malaysia-India Ties
During their conversation, PM Modi and PM Anwar discussed elevating Malaysia-India relations. The two nations upgraded their partnership to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership level in August 2024. This enhancement reflects deepening cooperation across diverse fields.
“Malaysia will remain committed to strengthening Malaysia-India relations and further enhancing ASEAN-India cooperation towards a more peaceful and prosperous region.” – Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim
India views Malaysia as vital for its Vision MAHASAGAR and Act East Policy. The vibrant Indian diaspora in Malaysia strengthens cultural bonds. Economic ties span sectors like technology, renewable energy and infrastructure. Furthermore, defense cooperation has expanded in recent years.
Looking Ahead: Virtual Diplomacy’s Growing Role
The PM Modi ASEAN summit virtual participation highlights changing diplomatic norms. Post-pandemic, hybrid formats have become acceptable alternatives. Leaders can now balance domestic priorities with international commitments more effectively. Technology bridges geographical distances without compromising substantive engagement.
Nevertheless, physical summits offer unique advantages. They enable spontaneous bilateral meetings and relationship building. Personal chemistry between leaders often catalyzes breakthroughs in negotiations. Therefore, a balanced approach combining virtual and in-person diplomacy serves best.
Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Diplomacy
The decision regarding PM Modi ASEAN summit participation demonstrates mature statesmanship. Respecting cultural festivals while maintaining international commitments reflects balanced governance. Malaysia’s understanding response strengthens bilateral goodwill. Meanwhile, Minister Jaishankar’s presence ensures India’s voice remains strong at the summit.
India’s engagement with ASEAN continues to deepen across economic, strategic and cultural dimensions. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership provides a robust framework for future cooperation. As Asia’s century unfolds, India-ASEAN collaboration will shape regional prosperity and stability.
This episode reminds us that diplomacy adapts to circumstances without compromising core commitments. Virtual platforms enable participation when physical presence becomes challenging. Ultimately, what matters is the substance of engagement rather than merely its format.
