@Halal R & R - Rest & Rehlah September/October 2022 | Page 2

MESSAGE FROM

02 | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022

MESSAGE FROM

Director-General Islamic Tourism Centre

THIS special issue of Rest & Rehlah is appropriately published in conjunction with the 3rd World Islamic Tourism Conference ( WITC ), a signature annual event by Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ).

Taking place from 17-19 October 2022 at World Trade Centre , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia , the third edition of this conference is significant as it signals a period of recovery for global tourism after a long , drawn-out pandemic . Islamic Tourism creates a new dimension and value in the travel , tourism and hospitality segment . As such , the theme chosen for the
conference this year , Islamic Tourism : Inspiring Balance , Transformations and Solutions , is apt in addressing the needs of tourism industry players as we strategise to heal , nurture and thrive in the post-pandemic tourism space .
While the pandemic caused significant shifts in tourism , it also opened our minds and eyes to the emerging opportunities that motivate us to rethink our actions and move forward with new insights and greater purpose . The market behaviour has changed dramatically , challenging all stakeholders ’ capability and capacity to remain relevant and resilient . It alters our worldview towards ESG and Human Development Index .
To help all of us navigate in this new
tourism space , ITC is pleased to organise WITC as a platform to share , discuss and act on new insights and opportunities . We wish for no one to be left behind , and we encourage everyone to register for the conference at www . witc . gov . my .
You will be in the company of global thought leaders passionate about the topic of Islamic Tourism and the Muslim tourist market and have front-row seats to how Islamic Tourism will drive recovery across all sectors .
To give you a glimpse into the conversations and discussions we will facilitate at the conference , this special issue of Rest & Rehlah distils some of those thoughts and ideas . May this publication inspire you to explore further .
I look forward to seeing you personally at the conference . Please share with us the results and significance of the conference in re-opening your minds towards Islamic Tourism as an ecosystem and Muslim- Friendly as a brand to move forward . Wishing you success always , Insha Allah . Thank you .
Dato ’ Dr Mohmed Razip Hasan
05

CONTENTS

P03-04 | Cover Story
Power of the Muslim tourist market
Industry players must be more innovative and competitive in developing and promoting their products and services to tap the Muslim market
Non-complacency is key to remaining on top
Mohmed Razip says that as a leading Muslim-Friendly Tourism destination , Malaysia has strong qualities
P05
Healthcare is a right , not a privilege
Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council focuses on rebuilding the healthcare travel industry
10
06
07
11
08-09
06
Youth as the successor
Muslim tour operators should offer Islamic Heritage Tours
P07
Sustainability in tourism
The pandemic presents an opportunity to promote sustainability in the tourism industry
P08-09
MFAR-rated hotels in Malaysia
P10
No more a niche market
Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites sees the demand for Islamic Tourism
P11 Event Highlights