Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim spoke with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on May 22, congratulating him on his appointment and leadership responsibilities [1, 2]. Vijay was sworn in as the ninth Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, 2026, after leading the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party to victory in the state legislative assembly elections [1].
Vijay, who is either 51 or 52 years old according to differing sources [1, 2], is a former South Indian film actor who transitioned into full-time politics [1, 2]. Anwar’s call not only conveyed congratulations but also included plans for his own trip to India.
Anwar said, "I also informed him that I will be traveling to India this September to attend the BRICS Summit and hold a meeting with PM Modi. If time permits, I plan to make a brief visit to Tamil Nadu as well" [1]. A similar statement was reported with slightly different wording: "I will be going to India this September to attend the BRICS Summit, as well as to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and if time permits, I may make a short visit to Tamil Nadu" [2].
The BRICS Summit is scheduled for September 2026, and Anwar Ibrahim’s visit will mark an important diplomatic engagement for Malaysia with India and the other BRICS nations. The possible Tamil Nadu visit would be a gesture recognizing the state leadership change and deepening ties with the southern state.
C. Joseph Vijay's rise from film actor to head of a political party that secured a decisive assembly election win is notable. As the leader of TVK, he represents a new leadership amidst Tamil Nadu’s complex political landscape.
Anwar Ibrahim’s scheduled attendance at the BRICS Summit and meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains confirmed. Whether he makes a brief stop in Tamil Nadu will depend on timing during the trip [1, 2].
