Anwar denies Tamil Nadu snub, says meeting with Vijay still on table

New Delhi, September 14 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said a meeting with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay is still a possibility, either in Putrajaya or Chennai. Anwar made these remarks during an exclusive interview with Thanthi TV, dispelling rumors that Chennai did not reciprocate a proposed visit by Malaysia. The Prime Minister, currently in India, was originally scheduled to visit Chennai after attending the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit before heading to Kerala, another South Indian state.

However, Chennai's visit was canceled at the last minute. Anwar clarified that the Chief Minister's office had been trying to accommodate his schedule, given his prior commitments and a limited window between New Delhi, Kerala, and the Maldives. He reiterated that goodwill between the two leaders remained strong, despite the canceled visit.

Anwar praised Vijay for his early momentum and appeal among young voters, urging a long-view approach to power based on values, patience, and practical wisdom. He also commended Vijay for his zeal for reforms, clean-up efforts, and addressing poverty and corruption. The Prime Minister shared his book with Vijay, noting the Tamil Nadu leader's openness to learning and his ability to listen, which he considered a promising trait in a world where quick applause often overshadows reflection.

Anwar emphasized the civilizational weight of Tamil Nadu, citing the moral clarity of the Tirukkural and the power of Tamil cinema to educate, arguing that Vijay's cultural influence carries diplomatic potential. For Malaysia, where the majority of ethnic Indians are Tamils, Vijay's popularity is significant, presenting an opportunity to strengthen people-to-people ties.