In a strategic move to further strengthen its footprint in the Indian market, Tourism Malaysia has appointed Haryanty Abu Bakar as Director of its Mumbai office, effective 13 April 2026. She will oversee tourism promotion and market development initiatives across Western and Central India, along with the Maldives.
The appointment comes at a crucial time as Malaysia intensifies its outreach ahead of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. Haryanty is expected to lead targeted strategies aimed at positioning Malaysia as a preferred destination for Indian travellers, highlighting its diverse offerings—from vibrant city experiences and premium shopping to beaches, family attractions, and cultural heritage.
India continues to be a key source market for Malaysia’s tourism growth. The country recently surpassed its 2025 target, recording 42.2 million international arrivals—an 11.2% increase over 2024—underscoring strong post-pandemic recovery and rising outbound demand from markets like India. The extension of visa-free entry for Indian nationals has further enhanced accessibility and travel confidence, complemented by a robust calendar of events planned under the VM2026 initiative.
With extensive experience across international and domestic tourism sectors, Haryanty brings a strong blend of leadership and market insight. She previously served as Director of Tourism Malaysia in Sabah, contributing to its positioning as a leading nature and adventure destination. Prior to that, as Deputy Director in Jakarta, she played a key role in strengthening ties with Indonesian travel trade partners and boosting inbound tourism, while gaining valuable exposure to the broader ASEAN travel landscape.
Her appointment signals Tourism Malaysia’s continued commitment to deepening engagement with India and capitalising on the growing demand for international travel, particularly as the country gears up for its flagship Visit Malaysia 2026 campai
