November-December . 2024

Resolutions

Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to advancing MFTH standards at the 4th WITC

The event , organised by the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) on 12-13 September 2024 at Sunway Resort Hotel , gathered thought leaders , policymakers , industry executives , and travel experts under the theme “ Forging Connections ”.

Nizran Noordin

The conference offered a range of insightful sessions , and discussions focused on uncovering emerging trends and opportunities in the Muslim tourist market . Over the two-day event , approximately 500 delegates attended , with more than 30 local and international speakers and moderators engaging in dynamic discussions .

SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN TOURISM

In his keynote address , Deputy Minister of Tourism , Arts and Culture ( MOTAC ) Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan emphasised that the government was committed

to continually elevating the standards for Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ).

He stated that RM350 million had been allocated under Budget

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2024 to strengthen Malaysia ’ s position in the tourism sector . A substantial portion of the funding , he mentioned , had been directed towards advancing the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) programme , along with other initiatives such as the Malaysian Visa Liberalisation Plan .

“ It is with conviction and evidence-based results that I say MFTH can foster a new standard in tourism where people travel respectfully and mindfully through the concept of Maqasid Shariah ,” said Firdaus .

“ While deeply rooted in Islamic tradition , Maqasid Shariah transcends religious boundaries by promoting universal values and objectives , essential to the well-being of all . Its principles of protecting faith , life , wealth , intellect , and progeny are echoed within the United Nations ’ Sustainable Development Goals .” – RnR

ISLAMIC TOURISM CENTRE ( ITC ) Director-General Nizran Noordin announced that the 4th World Islamic Tourism Conference ( 4th WITC ) 2024 concluded with the adoption of nine critical resolutions designed to propel the global Islamic tourism industry forward . These resolutions represent the unified commitment of industry leaders , policymakers , and stakeholders to foster a more inclusive , innovative , and sustainable future for Muslim-friendly tourism . They were : •

• Enhancing Muslim-Friendly Tourism infrastructure : A commitment to improving facilities and services to cater to the specific needs of Muslim travellers , ensuring a comfortable and enriching travel experience .

• Promoting inclusivity : Ensuring that tourism offerings are inclusive and respectful of diverse cultural and religious practices , fostering a welcoming environment for all travellers .

• Leveraging technology : Utilising digital platforms to enhance the travel experience for Muslim tourists , from planning and booking to on-the-ground services .

• Strengthening global partnerships : Building stronger international collaborations to promote Islamic opportunities in tourism , facilitating knowledge exchange and joint initiatives .

• Supporting female Muslim travellers : Recognising and addressing the unique needs of female Muslim travellers , ensuring their safety , comfort , and enjoyment .

• Sustainable tourism practices : Promoting environmentally sustainable practices within the tourism industry , ensuring that tourism development is in harmony and aligns with sustainable practices upheld by Maqasid Shariah and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals .

• Cultural exchange programmes : Encouraging programmes that foster cultural understanding and exchange , enriching the travel experience and promoting global harmony .

• Research and Development : Investing in research to better identify products and packages to effectively position Southeast Asia as the gateway into a vibrant , diverse and welcoming Muslim-friendly tourist destination for medium-haul and long-haul inbound tourists .

• Marketing and Communications : Developing key messaging and communications that resonate with the Muslim tourist market .

Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan

Participants of the 4th WITC 2024 .