MATRADE Appoints Abu Bakar Yusof as New CEO

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has appointed Abu Bakar Yusof as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective December 20, 2025. He succeeds Dato’ Sri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, who retires after 35 years of public service, including 32 years at MATRADE.

Abu Bakar Yusof

Abu Bakar brings more than 30 years of experience in international trade and export promotion. Starting as a Statistician in 1993, he held senior roles, including overseas postings in Seoul and Beijing, and an attachment at Khazanah Nasional. As Deputy CEO since 2020, he led Exporters Development and Export Acceleration divisions.

Abu Bakar pledged to drive Malaysia’s export goals under the 13th Malaysia Plan, collaborating with stakeholders for impactful results. Chairman Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican praised his expertise for continuity and thanked Mohd Mustafa for five years of exemplary leadership.