@Halal January/February 2024 | Page 27

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January-February . 2024

Cover Story

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“ MOTAC encourages tourism industry players to work closely with the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), which offers expertise in strategic tourism research and market intelligence as well as provides training and capacity-building services , standards development , recognition , and advisory services .”
– Dato ’ Sri Tiong King Sing
Dato ' Sri Tiong with Aziz Abduhakimov , Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan - Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Uzbekistan during the MoU signing ceremony between the two countries .
increase accessibility from Muslim regions to Malaysia .
" A case in point is our recent discussions with a few China airlines to develop flights from Ningxia and Xining city to Malaysia .”
He also revealed that MOTAC was currently in the process of enhancing accessibility across land , water , and air , along with the implementation of visa facilities that cater to the convenience of tourists . Additionally , there is a focus on developing distinctive and enticing tourism products and packages .
TAPPING FURTHER INTO THE MUSLIM TOURIST MARKET
Tiong highlighted that Malaysia ’ s potential as a leading Islamic tourism destination lies not just in its diverse attractions but also in its welcoming Muslim landscape .
The country ’ s Islamic identity ensures that Muslims can travel to Malaysia with confidence due to an ecosystem specifically designed to cater to the faith-based needs of
Dato ' Sri Tiong with some exhibitors of Matta Fair 2023 .
Muslim visitors . This includes readily available halal food options , prayer facilities , and other amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience .
“ MOTAC encourages tourism industry players to work closely with the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), which offers expertise in strategic tourism research and market intelligence as well as provides training and capacity-building services , standards development , recognition , and advisory services .
“ Our approach is to encourage more tourism industry players to subscribe to ITC ’ s recognition programmes . The two notable recognition programmes ITC offers are its Muslim-friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) and Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide ( MFTG ). These programmes ensure that tourism products and services in Malaysia meet ITC ’ s standards and guidelines for Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ). “
Perak , Melaka , Kelantan , and Perlis are currently organising their Visit State Year 2024 .
MY RAMADAN EXPERIENCE PACKAGES AND MORE
To tap further into the Muslim tourist market segment , Tiong shared that MOTAC ’ s agencies , namely ITC and Tourism Malaysia , were working together with tourism industry players to develop specially tailored travel packages called “ MY Ramadan Experience ” packages . These packages offer a unique opportunity for Muslim travellers worldwide to experience the joys of celebrating Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr in Malaysia .
“ Another strategy unveiled this year involves the establishment of Malaysia as an Umrah hub that goes beyond being a mere transit point for Umrah journeys made by pilgrims in the region . Instead , this initiative reflects a broader and more progressive vision .
“ It opens up greater opportunities for the country ’ s economic growth through the tourism sector in the long run . By providing the best facilities through MFTH packages , we can attract Muslim tourists on their way to or back from Mecca and Madinah , where they can explore the tourist attractions in Malaysia ,” shared Tiong .
In another development , MOTAC also officially signed a memorandum of understanding ( MoU ) with Uzbekistan to serve the common interests of both countries and contribute to the socio-economic development of their respective populations with several significant areas of collaboration over the next decade ( 2023-2033 ). These include promotion and marketing , bolstering air connectivity , research , training , and development , and promoting Muslim-friendly tourism .
PREPARING FOR VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR 2026
“ As we embark on the exciting journey towards Visit Malaysia Year 2026 , I am confident that harnessing the collective strengths of our industry , such as your continuous dedication , commitment to excellence , and willingness to embrace new opportunities , will be instrumental in shaping the future of tourism in Malaysia . We also encourage you to explore emerging opportunities .
“ With the growing Muslim tourist segment , gaining MFAR recognition is a strategic step towards attracting and catering to this valuable market .
“ MOTAC , through ITC , stands ready to assist you in this journey , offering valuable consultation services and comprehensive training programmes . Together , we can make Visit Malaysia Year 2026 a resounding success ,” Tiong concluded . – RnR