@Halal July/August 2023 | Page 46

MoUs

18 | JULY-AUGUST , 2023

MoU-mentous alliances

THE ISLAMIC TOURISM industry is experiencing remarkable growth , with the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) leading its development . Through establishing strategic collaborations and the forging of Memoranda of Understanding ( MoUs ), ITC has effectively propelled the advancement of Islamic tourism , driving its progress to new heights .

Let ’ s look closely at some of ITC ’ s notable MoUs and the outcomes of these partnerships !
MoU with Institut Pengajian Islam dan Dakwah Sabah ( IPDAS )

ITC joined hands with IPDAS to focus on human capital development in the Islamic tourism industry . The collaboration aims to enhance Islamic tourism-related programmes and curricula in tertiary education . ITC will provide training services to IPDAS ’ academic staff and industry players , fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic and Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ).

Outcomes :
• Developing modules and curriculum for the ‘ Diploma Pengajian Islam ’ to be offered by IPDAS .
• ITC and IPDAS have co-organised the “ Seminar Pelancongan Islam ” on Mar 30 , 2022 , at Raia Hotel , Kota Kinabalu , Sabah .
• Ustaz Mohd Ikhwan from IPDAS was invited as the trainer at the Muslim- Friendly Tourist Guide ( MFTG ) Training Course organised by ITC on Dec 5 to 7 , 2022 , at Grandis Hotel and Resort , Kota Kinabalu , Sabah .
MoU with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia ( USIM )

The objectives of the MoU between ITC and USIM are focused on sharing expertise and knowledge to advance various aspects of Islamic tourism . These include training , research , module development , standards development , and creating publicity materials in the tourism sector . The collaboration also extends to the joint organisation of meetings , conventions , seminars and other areas in the Islamic tourism sector . Another key focus of the MoU is the joint development and implementation of the “ 3u1i Study Mode ” programme in the field of management and administration of Islamic tourism and other relevant areas . “ 3u1i Study Mode ” is a programme to ensure graduates are truly job-ready by acquiring the necessary theoretical and practical experience .

Outcomes :
• Development of training modules for Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide ( MFTG ) Course and Mosque Visit Guide ( MosVi ) Training by USIM .
• USIM was invited as trainers and speakers for courses and events organised by ITC , i . e . MFTG Course , MosVi Training , MTCP and WITC .
• Volunteers from USIM assisted the ITC secretariat during the Launching of Islamic Tourism Week ( ITW ) on Jun 24 , 2022 , at Zenith Hotel , Putrajaya .
• ITC invited as member in USIM ' s Board of Studies for its Bachelor ' s Degree programme in management and tourism .
MoU with TUI

The MoU between ITC and TUI sets forth clear objectives to promote Muslim-Friendly Accommodations ( MFAR ) on the TUI website . The collaboration seeks to enhance the visibility and accessibility of these accommodations to a broader audience of travellers . One of the primary goals is to facilitate seamless digital and online travel bookings specifically for MFAR hotels .

Outcomes :
• Updated website with MFTH information on MFAR and ITC .
• Inclusion of the MFAR logo on the website .
• Creation of promotional posters highlighting Muslim-friendly holiday packages .
MoU with the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents ( MATTA )

ITC and MATTA joined forces to strengthen and develop Malaysia ’ s Islamic Tourism attractions , services , and hospitality . The partnership emphasised intelligence sharing , research and development ( R & D ) on Muslim social , cultural , and heritage tourism products , and training and capacity-building activities . This collaboration fostered the exchange of valuable insights and expertise , laying the foundation for future initiatives that would contribute to the growth of Islamic Tourism in Malaysia .

MoU with the International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance ( INCEIF )

ITC collaborates with INCEIF as an industry partner and evaluator for studies related to Islamic tourism conducted by INCEIF ’ s students under the Action Based Learning ( ABL ) programme . Their past research included ; A study of Malaysia ’ s UNESCO World Heritage Site and how the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality industry plays its role in elevating the community and The Potential Use of Crypto-Currencies in Malaysia ’ s Muslim-Friendly Tourism Industry .

Some of their proposed future research are :
• A study on the perception and awareness of Malaysian Silver Hair on Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH )
• A survey of the Islamic Tourism ecosystem in Malaysia
• A study of Malaysia as the hub of Modest Fashion
• A study on the readiness of commercial airlines to become Muslim-friendly ( Airlines in a study on how the tourism industry promotes Islamic Tourism / Muslim- Friendly Tourism & Hospitality ( MFTH ) Southeast Asia )
• Muslim-Friendly branding ; The opportunities and effects of using the Muslim-Friendly tagline for promoting services / tourism products in Malaysia
• Turning culture , cuisine , and arts into Muslim-friendly attractions ( specifically on UNESCO Heritage Site in Malaysia )