02 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER . 2023

Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) is pleased that the Islamic Tourism ecosystem has come into focus . The Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) sector is an integral driver of the halal economy , and Malaysia is in a prime position to benefit from the global Muslim tourist market .

We have long been helping our tourism industry players to leverage on this market through our research , training , standards and recognition programmes and advisory

services . Among the things we ’ ve been championing are the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) and Muslim-Friendly Tour Guide ( MFTG ) recognition programmes . Both MFAR and MFTG provide assurance to Muslim travellers that the products and services of our tourism and hospitality providers are in line with their faith-based needs .

The Budget 2024 allocation to develop Muslim-Friendly Tourism in Malaysia is a big step forward to expand the MFAR and MFTG footprint and encourage the development of a more robust Muslim-friendly ecosystem with travel packages , tourist guides , tourism frontliners , Mosque Tourism , and other spiritual events , products and activities that

cater to the Muslim tourist market . A strong MFTH ecosystem is essential to the success of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 , and we must all prepare now .

As a government agency under the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture led by Minister , YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing , and Deputy Minister YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan , ITC welcomes the opportunity to play a bigger role in supporting tourism industry players to step up their efforts and ensure Malaysia remains the preferred Muslimfriendly tourism destination .

Let ’ s work together to create a strong and sustainable Islamic Tourism economy for Malaysia !

Thank you . Nizran Noordin

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