Muslim-Friendly Tourism is the Next Big Opportunity for Malaysia

Global Muslim-friendly tourism is projected to contribute significantly to international tourism, with an estimated 230 million Muslim travelers expected to spend around $225 billion by 2028. Recognizing this immense potential, many popular destinations are introducing innovative offerings to attract Muslim tourists. Malaysia, already a preferred destination, stands to benefit greatly from this trend, provided it capitalizes on the opportunity and addresses rising competition from neighboring countries.

Muslim tourists currently make up about 20% of Malaysia’s total tourist arrivals, contributing approximately RM14.7 billion to the local economy in 2023. However, countries like Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand are aggressively promoting their Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality (MFTH) products and services, posing a competitive challenge for Malaysia.

In response to the increasing competition and to tap into the vast potential of Muslim tourists, the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC), is enhancing its efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a top Muslim-friendly destination. ITC has introduced the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) and the Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide (MFTG) programs to ensure the quality of products and services, boost tourist confidence, and open new market opportunities.

Launched in 2019, MFAR is the first government-backed recognition for businesses offering Muslim-friendly services in various areas such as tourist accommodations, spas, medical facilities, travel management, transportation hubs, shopping centers, and entertainment parks. ITC sees these standards as essential for attracting Muslim travelers and enhancing their experience in Malaysia.

Nizran Noordin, ITC director-general, stated, “Just like how Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia’s (JAKIM) halal certification has been helpful for Muslims in their decision-making regarding food and consumer goods, MFAR aims to provide the same recognition for tourism products and services.” The goal is to optimize tourists’ satisfaction and experience, enabling them to explore Malaysia’s cultural and natural attractions confidently.

The MFAR program not only assures the quality of Muslim-friendly services but also serves as a marketing tool to communicate the availability of amenities such as prayer facilities, halal food, and water for ablution. While emphasizing Muslim-friendly tourism, MFAR recognition does not exclude non-Muslim patrons, ensuring inclusivity.

The MFTG program recognizes MOTAC-licensed tourist guides who have completed ITC’s training and passed assessments on understanding the Muslim tourist market. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of services provided to Muslim tourists.

Malaysia has consistently topped the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) since its inception in 2015. In 2023, Malaysia was named “Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year” and “Muslim Women-Friendly Destination of the Year” at the Halal in Travel Awards. These accolades highlight Malaysia’s strong transport infrastructure, communication proficiency, ease of entry for travelers, safety, extensive halal dining options, and the availability of prayer places and Muslim-friendly accommodations.

With the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the country targets 35.6 million tourist arrivals and RM147.1 billion in receipts. MOTAC aims to position Malaysia as an Umrah hub for Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania, further increasing Muslim tourist arrivals. Nizran Noordin emphasized that the growth of the Muslim tourist market could sustain various sectors such as banking, finance, and insurance through offerings like payment gateways, digital wallets, and travel insurance tailored for Muslim tourists.

To facilitate the application for MFAR recognition, ITC has developed a rating system where businesses can achieve silver, gold, or platinum recognition based on their level of commitment and compliance with the guidelines. Nizran Noordin expressed hope that industry players will adopt these recognitions to provide greater assurance to Muslim tourists, especially as Malaysia prepares to become an Umrah hub.

The potential for Muslim-friendly tourism in Malaysia is immense. By leveraging strategic initiatives and addressing competitive challenges, Malaysia can solidify its position as a leading destination for Muslim travelers, driving economic growth and enhancing its global standing. For the latest updates on Malaysia’s tourism initiatives, follow official announcements from the Islamic Tourism Centre and MOTAC.