Deputy Minister Highlights Malaysia’s Leadership in Islamic Tourism at WITC 2024

At the 4th World Islamic Tourism Conference (WITC), YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, reaffirmed Malaysia’s status as a global leader in Islamic tourism. Addressing an audience of over 300 participants from more than 10 countries, YB Khairul emphasized Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to advancing the Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality (MFTH) ecosystem. He expressed the country’s dedication to building a robust infrastructure that supports the needs of Muslim travelers, while also catering to a broader audience through the principles of Islamic tourism.

The Global Muslim Tourist Market is projected to be worth USD 225 billion by 2028, and YB Khairul highlighted that Malaysia remains at the forefront of this growing sector, which continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic development. In the first half of 2024 alone, Malaysia welcomed 11.8 million tourists, contributing RM45.4 billion to the economy, with Muslim tourists accounting for approximately 20% of these arrivals. This influx, he stressed, is a testament to Malaysia’s appeal as a top destination for Muslim travelers, thanks to its halal-friendly infrastructure, diverse cultural offerings, and strategic promotion of Islamic tourism.

During his address, YB Khairul outlined the government’s significant investments in enhancing the country’s halal tourism infrastructure, noting that RM64 million has been allocated for building and refurbishing mosques and musollahs (prayer spaces) across the country. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to fortify Malaysia’s halal ecosystem, which is further supported by key organizations such as the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) and the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP). These entities work closely to ensure that Malaysia not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Muslim travelers, offering seamless experiences that reflect the country’s strong Islamic heritage.

Beyond infrastructure, the Deputy Minister underscored the broader implications of Islamic tourism, positioning it as a tool for cultural exchange, ethical business practices, and sustainable economic growth. He emphasized that the Islamic tourism sector is not just about catering to the needs of Muslim travelers; it promotes values that benefit all travelers by fostering ethical, sustainable, and inclusive development. This aligns with the principles of Maqasid Shariah, which prioritize the well-being of society, as well as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

YB Khairul also spoke on the need for continuous innovation within the sector, encouraging both public and private stakeholders to embrace new technologies, such as digital platforms and AI, to enhance traveler experiences and operational efficiency. He stressed the importance of promoting sustainable practices that preserve the environment while ensuring the growth of the tourism sector. Furthermore, he called for stronger global partnerships, particularly with countries in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and beyond, to share best practices, knowledge, and resources in advancing Islamic tourism.

In his closing remarks, YB Khairul urged attendees to look beyond the immediate economic benefits of Islamic tourism and consider its potential to foster global cultural understanding and harmony. “Islamic tourism can foster a new standard of tourism that benefits all of humanity by promoting respect, mindfulness, and universal values,” he said. He reiterated that Malaysia is poised to lead the way in creating a tourism model that not only drives economic growth but also strengthens intercultural connections and contributes to a more sustainable and equitable future.

As Malaysia continues to solidify its leadership in Islamic tourism, it is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the global market, playing a crucial role in fostering greater cultural understanding, ethical tourism practices, and sustainable development. The country’s efforts are not only enhancing its economic outlook but also setting new benchmarks for how tourism can be a force for positive global change.