Kuala lumpur: Datuk Manoharan Periasamy has been appointed chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia), with his term commencing on December 8. The appointment was announced by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the appointment was made under Section 5(1)(a) of the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board Act 1992, and Manoharan will succeed Datuk Dr Yasmin Mahmood. Tiong highlighted that Manoharan is expected to enhance Tourism Malaysia's strategic direction, with a particular focus on improving the coordination of tourism promotion programs and activities in preparation for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

Manoharan brings over 30 years of experience in public service and the tourism sector to his new role. His career includes serving as Tourism Malaysia director-general, and he has held several key positions such as senior director of the International Promotion Division (Asia and Africa), as well as roles in the Advertising and Digital Division, Package Development Division, and Corporate Communication Division.

He has been instrumental in expanding Malaysia's presence in the South Asian market, having led promotional operations as Tourism Malaysia's director in Mumbai and New Delhi, India, from 2000 to early 2016.

Manoharan expressed his dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of his new role. He acknowledged the trust placed in him and emphasized the importance of ensuring the successful implementation of VM2026. He is committed to collaborating closely with management and all personnel at Tourism Malaysia to solidify Malaysia's status as a leading tourist destination.