Maya Watono Breaks Barriers as Youngest Female CEO in BUMN History

Maya Watono has set a historic milestone in Indonesia's business sector by becoming the youngest female CEO of a state-owned enterprise (BUMN). On November 21, 2024, the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises officially appointed her as the President Director of PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (InJourney), replacing Dony Oskaria. This decision followed a shareholder meeting and was solidified through Ministerial Decree No. SK-282/MBU/11/2024.

Born on May 12, 1982, Maya holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Bachelor of Science (Honors) from the University of Western Australia. Her career began in advertising 17 years ago, where she quickly rose to leadership roles. She served as CEO of Dwi Sapta Group (2015–2018) and later became the first and youngest female Country CEO of Dentsu Indonesia (2019–2022). Maya joined InJourney in January 2022 as Director of Marketing and Tourism Programs before being named Interim CEO in October 2024.

Under her leadership, Maya aims to drive InJourney’s transformation as a key holding company in the aviation and tourism sectors. Her dedication to advancing the company aligns with the broader vision of Erick Thohir, Indonesia’s Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, to promote women in leadership roles within BUMN.

Her accomplishments have been widely recognized. In 2019, she was honored as Woman Leading Change Asia by Campaign Asia, and in 2024, she was listed among Asia-Pacific’s 50 Most Influential and Purposeful Marketers. Her expertise and forward-thinking strategies are expected to strengthen InJourney’s role in Indonesia’s economy, particularly in tourism and aviation development.

This appointment not only highlights Maya’s individual achievements but also reflects a growing trend of empowering women in leadership positions in Indonesia. As the youngest female CEO in BUMN history, she represents a new era of progressive leadership, inspiring younger generations to break through traditional barriers.