March-April . 2024

MESSAGE FROM

Malaysia , with its multicultural population , has a rather unique way of marking the event , not only through spiritual programmes at mosques and Islamic knowledge centres , but also through community-based and social activities that nurture relations and deepen bonding . Among the organised programmes are enlightening talks by esteemed religious scholars , engaging community-based mosque activities such as communal iftar and tarawih prayers , and the special iftar buffet dinners at hotels . Additionally , the open-air iftar picnics and vibrant bazaars all around Malaysia create an atmosphere of festivity and unity .

While these activities are , of course , undertaken with the intention of achieving the highest rewards in the eyes of the Almighty , they also inadvertently provide a unique opportunity for Muslim and non- Muslim visitors from elsewhere to observe and participate in meaningful Ramadan experiences in Malaysia . In this issue of Rest & Rehlah , some industry players share how they are delivering memorable moments to visitors during Ramadan , fostering spirituality , empathy , friendship and cultural understanding .

Furthermore , I am pleased to congratulate 16 Seri Malaysia hotels for receiving their well-deserved Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) from ITC , underscoring the commitment of the Malaysian hospitality industry to cater to the unique needs of Muslim travellers .

Looking ahead , ITC is gearing up to collaborate with more industry players to streamline guidelines for spa facilities and travel agencies . This harmonisation effort will contribute to creating a more cohesive and standardised Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) landscape in Malaysia , subsequently instilling confidence and comfort in Muslim tourists , assuring them of a seamless and culturally sensitive travel experience within our beautiful country .

As ITC continues to grow the supply of MFTH products and services , we are also working hard exploring new opportunities and markets with the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture , its agencies such as Tourism Malaysia , and our tourism partners .

We look forward to a dynamic year ahead , and in the meantime , may this holy month bring you peace , joy , and a deeper connection with the spirit of Ramadan .

Nizran Noordin

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Enhancing Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality

Adding significant value to spas , wellness centres , and travel agencies with the adoption of new MFAR guidelines

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Exploring the Muslim tourist market in Europe

ITC leads a sales mission to Paris and London to showcase the best of Malaysia ’ s Muslim-friendly tourism offerings

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Five critical insights to British Muslim travel and tourism

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Unlocking Europe ’ s Muslim travel market

A call for representation , compelling storytelling , meaningful experiences , and connection

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A fusion of tradition and modernity

Andalusia Travel & Tours aims to enhance sustainable practices to attract loyal customers in the European Muslim travel market

P10 A soulful Ramadan journey

Malaysia welcomes tourists to experience the best of its Ramadan offerings with MY Ramadan Experience

P11 The ‘ Taj Mahal ’ of Ipoh

Masjid Panglima Kinta extends a warm welcome to non-Muslim tourists during Ramadan , offering free guided tours and iftar experiences

P12 ‘ Festival Ramadan Putrajaya ’

Putrajaya Corporation organises the 12th edition of Festival Ramadan Putrajaya , featuring the famous picnicstyle iftar

P13 Islamic events in Malaysia

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P14 A taste of Malaysia

Seri Malaysia ’ s Gurindam Ramadan buffet celebrates local flavours

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A Muslim-friendly agrotourism destination

INCEIF team found key findings to develop Muslim-friendly tourism offerings in Yan , Kedah