@Halal R&R - Rest & Rehlah March/April 2025 | Page 2

March-April . 2025
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CONTENTS

MESSAGE BY
MS . NUR ALYSSA CORALINE YUSSIN Director , Research and Training / Acting Director-General , Islamic Tourism Centre
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ASSALAMUALAIKUM warahmatullahi wabarakatuh . As the crescent moon ushers in the blessed month of Ramadan , we are reminded of the beauty of faith , reflection , and togetherness . Across the world , Muslims eagerly anticipate this sacred time , and in Malaysia , the atmosphere is truly special . From vibrant Ramadan bazaars and the warmth of communal prayers to the festive celebration of Eid , the season brings people together in a way that makes our country a remarkable destination for visitors seeking an authentic Muslim-friendly experience .

Reflecting on the start of 2025 , ITC takes great pride in the success of the second edition of the China Muslim Representative Cultural Exchange Familiarisation Trip , held from 5 to 11 February in collaboration with the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association ( MICA ). This initiative , driven by a strong public-private partnership , continues to strengthen cultural ties and open new avenues for Muslim-friendly tourism . My heartfelt appreciation goes to state tourism bodies , industry stakeholders , and our dedicated partners who played a crucial role in making this programme a success .
Building on this momentum , we are thrilled to extend our collaborations further . This year , alongside the Bumiputera Travel and Tour Agents Association of Malaysia ( BUMITRA ) and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents ( MATTA ), we will welcome more Muslim representatives from China and Europe , fostering greater understanding and connectivity with this relatively untapped market to introduce many exciting , meaningful and heartwarming experiences in Muslim-Friendly Malaysia . We look forward to these exciting developments and pray that Allah eases our journey ahead , InsyaAllah .
Thank you , and may this Ramadan and Syawal bring peace , blessings , and success to us all .
Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh .
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Advancing regional tourism development ASEAN member States reaffirm commitment to strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector
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Driving tourism boom Malaysia sees surge in arrivals from China and India following visa relaxation measures
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A reflection of tradition and culture Local communities in Malaysia shape centuries of unique mosque architecture
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Strengthening cultural ties China Muslim Cultural Exchange Familiarisation Trip enhances bilateral ties , cultural understanding , and economic opportunities ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026
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Nurturing tourism growth A strategic collaboration between BUMITRA Malaysia and ITC aims to empower operators and attract 20,000 Muslim tourists to Malaysia
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Exploring European market MATTA strengthens global engagement to position Malaysia as a top Muslim-friendly destination for European travellers
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Unforgettable Ramadan buffet in Malaysia
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Updates on ITC ’ s signature programmes : MFAR and MFTG
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Advancing wellness through research ITC integrates academic insights to strengthen its MFAR guidelines for the spa and wellness segment
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Ramadan 2025 unveiled A vibrant lineup of spiritual , cultural , and community experiences throughout the holy month