Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Pledges Stronger Malaysia Ties After Anwar’s Congratulations

HYDERABAD: Newly appointed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has expressed gratitude to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for congratulating him on his election victory, while pledging to strengthen relations between Tamil Nadu and Malaysia.

The 51-year-old actor-turned-politician said he was deeply touched by Anwar’s message and reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing cooperation and friendship between the two sides.

“Thank you for your gracious gesture. I am committed to fostering greater cooperation and enhancing the bond of friendship between Tamil Nadu and Malaysia,” Vijay said in a post shared on X on Tuesday.

Vijay officially took office as chief minister on Sunday after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a major victory in the Tamil Nadu state assembly elections held in April.

Earlier, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim publicly congratulated Vijay and praised his remarkable political achievement.

“I warmly congratulate my friend Vijay on being elected Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” Anwar wrote on X.

The Malaysian leader also made a light-hearted reference to Vijay’s long and successful film career, saying millions of fans had watched him defeat corrupt politicians and villains on screen for years.

“Now, the people of Tamil Nadu have entrusted Vijay with a responsibility far greater than any role performed on-screen,” Anwar added.

Anwar further highlighted the longstanding historical and cultural relationship shared between Malaysia and Tamil Nadu, noting the close people-to-people ties that have existed across generations.

He also expressed hope for closer cooperation with Vijay’s administration in the coming years.

Vijay’s rise from Tamil cinema superstar to chief minister has drawn widespread attention across India and among Tamil communities abroad, including in Malaysia, where he enjoys a massive fan following.