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January-February . 2025
Travel Agency
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Yahabibi Travel
YAHABIBI TRAVEL , a Penangb a s e d travel agency established by Director Syam Hassan , is among the latest recipients of the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ). This recognition holds significant value for the agency , as it assures Muslim clients that its services are Muslim-friendly , operated by
a Muslim company , and adhere strictly to Islamic standards .
“ This recognition enhances customer trust and sets us apart by demonstrating our commitment to providing Muslim-friendly services ,” Syam said .
YAHABIBI TRAVEL ’ S ENHANCED OFFERINGS FOR CNY
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• Staff Training & Service Improvement : Conducting staff training to enhance service , with a focus on halal offerings and Muslimfriendly services .
• Muslim-friendly Packages : Providing packages that ensure halal-certified food , prayer facilities , and Muslim-friendly destinations for a secure travel experience .
• Chinese New Year Experience : Curating packages that include local Chinese New Year celebrations and highlighting Chinese Muslim restaurants certified by JAKIM .
RC Travel & Tours
RC TRAVEL & Tours is a travel company that specialises in Islamic tourism , offering visitors the opportunity to explore Malaysia ’ s rich cultural heritage . Chairman Mohd Firdaus Jaafar shared that the company has received numerous inquiries specifically about Muslim-friendly trips .
“ The most common preferences and requirements of these clients include halal food options , availability of prayer facilities at hotels and attractions , and proximity to mosques . Many also request family-friendly accommodations , gender-segregated services , and alcohol-free environments . Additionally , clients often seek itineraries that include visits to Islamic heritage sites , as well as flexible schedules to accommodate prayer times and Ramadan-related needs ,” Firdaus elaborated .
Commenting on the recent Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ), he explained that the MFAR recognition is a crucial endorsement for travel agencies , as it validates their commitment to addressing the unique needs of Muslim travellers . It also strengthens their reputation by ensuring that products and services are halal , culturally sensitive , and compliant with international standards .
“ This recognition helps attract Muslim travellers who seek reliable and trustworthy services , leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty . It also gives us a competitive edge in the growing halal tourism market , allowing us to offer tailored packages that cater to specific religious and cultural requirements .”
Mitra Kembara
MI TRA KEM- BARA , a Bumiputera company established in 1976 , provides a diverse range of Muslim-friendly holiday packages to destinations worldwide . Its Group Managing Director , Dr Fazil Khan Abdul Kadir , highlighted the significance of the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ), explaining that it is crucial for travel agencies as it endorses companies to offer credible and authentic Muslim-friendly travel services .
“ If we ’ re looking at the certification , the first step is identifying which hotels and places visited by our customers are suitable for Muslim travellers . I prefer to use the term ‘ Muslim-friendly ’ rather than ‘ halal ,’ as halal certification is very specific . Muslim-friendly means ensuring that hotels and establishments offer appropriate amenities , such as access to halal food .” – RnR
MITRA KEMBARA ’ S COMMITMENT TO STANDARDS
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• ISO Compliance : The company adheres to ISO standards to maintain high-quality service and operational consistency .
• MFAR Alignment : Key MFAR certification criteria are seamlessly integrated into the company ’ s ISO framework , reflecting a commitment to Muslim-friendly travel .
A MUSLIM-FRIENDLY CNY EXPERIENCE BY RC TRAVEL
• Offering special cultural packages that blend Chinese New Year celebrations with halal-friendly experiences , including visits to Chinatown festivities in Kuala Lumpur .
• Ensuring halal dining options at certified Chinese Muslim restaurants , with private tours to cultural landmarks and access to halal-certified hotels .
• Providing special events that celebrate both Chinese traditions and Islamic values , ensuring an inclusive and memorable experience for Muslim travellers .