Dato ' Seri Mohamed Rafik Mohd Idris |
Dr Mohamed Ali Abu Bakar |
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MALAYSIA requires unified support from diverse industry players to establish itself as a leading Muslim-friendly destination . The active involvement of travel agencies , hotels , and related service providers is pivotal in positioning Malaysia as the preferred choice for travellers , fostering unforgettable experiences that encourage return visits .
The country must strategically showcase its distinctive offerings , including Malay Cultural packages , Ramadan packages , and Muslim-friendly healthcare experiences , to enhance its standing in the Muslim-friendly tourism sector .
MALAY CULTURAL PACKAGES
Jessica Ooi , Director of Sales , Anytime Holidays Sdn Bhd , emphasised that the Malay Cultural packages were tailored for Muslim tourists . In collaboration with the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association ( MICA ), they are curating packages that encompass hotels with Muslim-friendly Accommodation Recognition ( MFAR ), halal-certified restaurants , and dedicated Muslim-friendly Tourist Guides ( MFTGs ).
“ We are a multicultural nation and very Muslim-friendly . There are halal options everywhere , with numerous Muslim restaurants . This makes it very comfortable for Muslim tourists .”
She mentioned that the training provided by the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) regarding Muslim-friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) allowed MICA members to gain a more in-depth understanding of Muslim culture . This knowledge helps them ensure a more
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comfortable experience for tourists .
RAMADAN BUFFET EXPERIENCE
“ As we know , Malaysia is a multiracial society , which is sort of a festival by itself . We might think that it ( the Ramadan experience ) belongs to a certain sector of people in Malaysia , but it does not . Many people are looking forward to the month , especially the Bazaar Ramadan and Ramadan buffet , including Chinese and Indians ,” said Managing Director of Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites , Dato ’ Seri Mohamed Rafik Mohd Idris .
“ What they look forward to the most is to enjoy the food . The same goes for the tourists . It is an attraction for them to come to Malaysia and enjoy this experience during Ramadan .”
Rafik stressed the importance of collaboration within the tourism industry to ensure the success of Muslim-friendly offerings . Authorities also play a crucial role in promoting globally the availability of Ramadan packages , allowing tourists to experience a unique and one-of-a-kind experience .
As a Muslim-friendly establishment , Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites is dedicated to offering its guests a distinctive Ramadan experience . The hotel presents a range of thoughtful offerings , including the Destinasi Rasa Ramadan Buffet , spacious Musollah for prayers , special room rates , Ramadan seminar packages , and Ramadan Experience Packages for 2024 .
Notably , the hotel introduces a unique Ramadan buffet featuring the ‘ Destinasi
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Rasa ’ concept , showcasing traditional dishes from all states in Malaysia . Guests can purchase the Early Bird Ramadan voucher for RM135 nett ( regular price : RM165 nett ). |
A MUSLIM-FRIENDLY HEALTHCARE DESTINATION
Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council ( MHTC ) is dedicated to positioning Malaysia as the premier global healthcare destination .
MHTC CEO Dr Mohamed Ali Abu Bakar noted a significant improvement in business post-pandemic , driven by an influx of health travellers from various countries . Indonesia has emerged as a leading contributor , with many attracted by the cultural similarities . Notably , there ’ s also a rising trend of health tourists from China , particularly for IVF facilities .
“ We feel that countries like China , and even countries in the Middle East ,
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Jessica Ooi
find a resemblance in terms of culture when coming to Malaysia . Over the last year , we have worked together with organisations like ITC and others to make it more convenient for them .
“ For example , in the Middle East , they prefer to come to Malaysia because of the perceived quality of services . Instead of solely focusing on Muslim-friendliness , they prioritise the quality of healthcare , the expertise of doctors , and the overall outcomes , considering them superior to surrounding countries . Price is not their primary concern .
“ However , over the months , I ’ ve realised that they prefer to travel with their families , finding it comfortable to visit a Muslim country where finding a place to pray is easier , halal is not an issue , and they feel safe . When considering Muslim-friendliness , key criteria they look at are safety , the kindness of people , and the ease of travelling to Malaysia as a family .” – RnR
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