Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, a former director-general, is the new Tourism Malaysia chairman tasked with leading the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Manoharan Periasamy has been appointed as the new chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia).
His appointment, effective from December 8, was announced by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. Tiong said the appointment was made under the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board Act 1992 to replace Datuk Dr Yasmin Mahmood.
“Manoharan is expected to strengthen Tourism Malaysia’s strategic direction, particularly in enhancing the coordination of tourism promotion programmes and activities ahead of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign,” he said in a statement.
Manoharan brings over 30 years of experience in the public service and tourism sector to the role. He previously served as Tourism Malaysia’s director-general and held several other key positions within the board.
His past portfolios included senior director of the International Promotion Division (Asia and Africa), senior director of Advertising and Digital Division, and director of Package Development Division. He also played a significant role in expanding Malaysia’s footprint in the South Asian market.
Manoharan led promotional operations as Tourism Malaysia’s director in Mumbai and New Delhi, India, from 2000 to early 2016. He expressed his commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him.
“I truly appreciate the trust placed in me through this appointment. It is a major responsibility, especially in ensuring the successful implementation of VM2026,” he said.
He added that he is committed to working closely with the management and all Tourism Malaysia personnel to further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a premier tourist destination.
