Suhairi Hashim , Director of Tourism Johor , shared the Johor Islamic Tourism Initiative was to spearhead the development of the Islamic tourism industry in the State .

“ This initiative offers valuable information on halal food , prayer facilities , and other Muslim-friendly services available in Johor . It also organises Islamic tourism activities , such as visits to historic mosques and Islamic cultural centres . Overall , Tourism Johor is well aware of the potential growth of Muslim-friendly tourism and is committed to developing this industry in Johor .”

MUSLIM-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS IN JOHOR

According to Suhairi , Johor boasts numerous captivating tourist attractions , especially compelling to the Muslim travel market . These include :

• Johor Bahru Old Town : The old town area has many historical and cultural landmarks , including the iconic Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque and the Royal Heritage Route .

• Legoland Malaysia : This theme park has several attractions that cater to families , including water parks , rides , and shows , and it also provides halal-certified dining options .

• Desaru Coast : A beach resort with a water park , a golf course , and several hotels offering halal-certified dining options .

• Gunung Pulai : This nature reserve has hiking trails and beautiful views of the surrounding area .

• Istana Besar : A beautiful palace built during the reign of Sultan Abu Bakar , now converted into a museum which tells the story of the history of the Johor Royal Family .

• Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque : A beautiful , iconic mosque and one of the most famous in Malaysia .

Suhairi Hashim

• Johor Premium Outlets : A shopper ’ s paradise , a shopping complex that houses outlet stores of luxury brands .

• Pasir Gudang Kite Museum : The museum displays various traditional and modern kites in all kinds of shapes and sizes from all over the world .

• Kota Tinggi Waterfall : A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery , perfect for picnics or trekking . “ To meet the needs of the Muslim travel market , the tourism industry in Johor has taken several steps , including the certification of hotels and restaurants as halal-compliant , the provision of prayer facilities in public areas and hotels , and the development of Muslim-friendly tour packages . Some hotels and resorts even provide private halal butlers and Quran in guest rooms to cater to Muslim travellers .”

STRENGTHENING ISLAMIC TOURISM IN JOHOR

Suhairi revealed that Tourism Johor collaborated with local businesses to support the development of Muslim-friendly tourism products and services . They work with the Johor Islamic Religious Council to establish standards and certification for Muslim-friendly tourism .

“ We organise workshops , training sessions , and networking events to help local businesses better understand the needs of Muslim travellers and how to cater to them . These events also facilitate partnerships between local businesses and international Muslim-friendly tourism organisations ,” said Suhairi .

He stated that Tourism Johor utilised multiple platforms , including social media ,

websites , travel fairs , partnerships , and press releases , to showcase Johor ’ s Muslim-friendly tourism offerings . These promotions highlight halal-certified food , prayer facilities , and other amenities suitable for Muslim travellers .

“ Tourism Johor promotes and showcases local Muslim-friendly tourism products and services through various channels , including social media , marketing campaigns , and participation in international tourism exhibitions and events .

“ Johor ’ s rich Islamic heritage , availability of halal food and facilities , and Muslim-friendly amenities make it an ideal destination for Muslim travellers , and the tourism industry is taking steps to cater to the needs of this market segment .”

WELCOMING ITC ’ S RECOGNITION INITIATIVE

Regarding Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) ‘ s recognition scheme for Islamic tourism , Suhairi said : “ The new recognition scheme encourages industry players to enhance their Muslim-friendly tourism products and services by providing globally standardised accreditation and recognition .

“ This scheme could motivate industry players such as Tourism Johor to take necessary steps to meet the required standards and receive recognition , which could help attract more Muslim travellers to the region .

“ By offering more Muslim-friendly tourism products and services , industry players will tap into the growing market of Muslim-friendly tourism and contribute to the growth of the tourism industry in Malaysia .” — R & R

Legoland Malaysia .