CHT PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE NATIONAL AWARD - TOURISM
Dato' Mirza Mohammad Taiyab
Director General of Tourism Malaysia
Having devoted more than three decades to tackling the challenges faced by an industry marked by tremendous volatility due to constant market fluctuations across an ever-evolving landscape, Tourism Malaysia’s director general, Dato’ Mirza Mohammad, is a national treasure with the fortitude to match. A personality equipped with the stamina to keep up with the times, his loyal contributions are a testament to his steadfast passion.
A tenacious marketer steeped in expansive capability, the task of positioning Malaysia as a harmonious melting pot of cultures and beloved travel destination in world’s eyes has been his ultimate mandate. Under his leadership, the rise of the country’s international and domestic touristic value has been significant, recording a 50% increase over the past 10 years alone—a journey riddled with rocky turns yet met with staggering success.
Amidst relentless competition, his team of mission-receptive players has welcomed growth as well as placed the nation in the top 10 spot as a visitors’ marvel contending at the global level. Also, thanks to his insightful direction, Malaysia has risen through the ranks and surfaced as the second highest foreign exchange earner. He spent the 80s supervising promotional efforts in Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland, and his 90s at the Tokyo office.
As key representative, the 2004 Tourism Marketing Man of the Year has dedicated his 33-year tenure leading delegations and missions worldwide whilst securing many big wins to the bustling capital’s name such as Asia’s Best Golf Destination, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel (2014), Best Shopping City (2013 and 2012), and Best Family Destination, among others. The Ohio University degree-holder is the recipient of several state-awarded accolades.
