Manoharan Periasamy, an experienced senior executive with extensive tenure at the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia), has been appointed as the new director-general of the board. This appointment follows the controversial demotion of Datuk Ammar Abd Ghapar last week. The announcement of Manoharan’s appointment was officially made on Tourism Malaysia‘s Facebook page.
On the preceding Saturday, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Tiong King Sing, announced that Ammar had been relegated to the position of deputy director-general due to persisting performance issues despite numerous opportunities for improvement. Tiong asserted that several state governments had registered complaints regarding Ammar’s insufficient involvement, firmly denying any race-related motives behind the demotion.
On Friday, Ammar officially acknowledged his removal from the highest position and expressed his dissatisfaction over leaving the role under such circumstances, given his 36 years of service to the ministry. Appointed as the director-general in April of the previous year, Ammar is scheduled to retire in March 2025.
Prior to Manoharan’s current appointment, he held the position of senior director for international promotion (Asia & Africa) at Tourism Malaysia. Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than twenty years, Manoharan has carved out an inspiring path in the field of tourism. Serving as the Senior Director for International Promotion (Asia & Africa) at Tourism Malaysia, he demonstrated remarkable skill in maneuvering through the intricate dynamics of the global tourism sector. Under his guidance, the establishment of the inaugural National Tourism Organization (NTO) office in Mumbai in 2001 stands out as a pivotal achievement in fostering stronger tourism ties between Malaysia and India, contributing to heightened bilateral tourism activity.
With an impressive career background and a track record of accomplishments, Manoharan brings valuable experience to this significant position. It is hoped that under his guidance, Tourism Malaysia will thrive, fostering international relations and enhancing the tourism sector.
Source: Free Malaysia Today, BBN
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