Malaysia is advancing its status as a top Muslim-friendly destination by promoting syariah-compliant and Muslim-friendly practices within its tourism industry. Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin emphasized this crucial initiative at the recent mini-symposium on Islamic tourism in Kuala Lumpur. This strategic push aims to attract more Muslim travelers by ensuring that tourism services and accommodations meet their specific religious and cultural needs. Discover how Malaysia’s efforts to enhance its appeal as a halal tourism hub are shaping the future of the industry.
As Malaysia is globally recognized for its welcoming environment for Muslim travelers, this move aims to capitalize on the substantial spending power of tourists from Muslim-majority countries. According to Datuk Mas Ermieyati, “An Arab tourist can spend nearly RM10,000 in a single day. It would be a significant loss if our tourism industry does not capitalize on this potential.”
To meet the growing demand from Muslim tourists, industry stakeholders are encouraged to offer a range of Syariah-compliant services. These include facilities such as prayer rooms, halal food options, and culturally sensitive hospitality practices. Datuk Mas Ermieyati pointed out that hotels and businesses that have implemented these syariah-compliant features have experienced impressive financial returns.
The Ministry of Tourism and Culture has set an ambitious target of attracting 5.5 million Muslim tourists to Malaysia this year. This goal is part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s tourism sector by catering to the specific needs and preferences of Muslim travelers.
In support of this initiative, the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) organized the first-ever symposium on Islamic tourism, which serves as a crucial platform for discussing and advancing the sector. The two-day event, which began on Thursday, has drawn approximately 100 participants, including industry professionals and academics. The symposium features eight working papers that address various aspects of Islamic tourism, from market trends and challenges to best practices and innovative solutions.
The symposium also provides an opportunity for networking and collaboration among key stakeholders in the Islamic tourism industry, further fostering growth and development in this niche market.
By focusing on Syariah-compliant tourism and leveraging the high spending power of Muslim travelers, Malaysia aims to strengthen its position as a leading destination in the global halal tourism sector, ensuring a rewarding experience for both tourists and the local economy.
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