March-April. 2026

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MESSAGE BY

MR MOHAMMAD FAISAL ABU SUAIB KHAN Director-General, Islamic Tourism Centre

Director-General of Islamic Tourism Centre( ITC), I am filled with gratitude for the warm welcome from everyone. Yet, at the same time, I am keenly aware of the big shoes I have to fill. Through the seasons, ITC has grown in reach and reputation, and I am honoured to continue nurturing the legacy of my predecessors, ensuring ITC remains a reliable comrade to our partners.

The groundwork laid by ITC over the years has been instrumental in making the industry what it is today. From establishing world-class standards to building a resilient ecosystem, the past efforts of ITC have positioned Malaysia as a reference point for the global Muslim travel market. It is this foundation of excellence that allows us to look towards the future with compassion and sincerity.

While these technical standards are essential, the true measure of success is the human touch. Our goal is to ensure that Malaysia remains a safe, comforting and welcoming travel space to all – specifically meeting the discerning needs of the Muslim market, be it solo, women, business travellers or families. In the fast momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026, it may be easy to lose ourselves in quality standards, innovation and technology, but we must never forget that the foundations of tourism are built on hospitality, sincerity and care for the guests, no matter where they come from.

It is with this focus that we invite you to explore this journey with us through our signature programmes: the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition( MFAR) and Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide( MFTG). These recognitions are the tools to help you convey thoughtfulness and empathy in every aspect of your service. Furthermore, positioning Malaysia as a premier regional Umrah Hub remains a main agenda this year, creating new avenues for growth and spiritual connection.

Looking ahead, we have an incredible year planned to raise the bar even further. Expect the return of flagship events, World Islamic Tourism Conference( WITC) and Islamic Tourism Symposium( ITS) and the inaugural Halal Street Food Festival. As the leading government agency in Islamic Tourism, ITC is ready to work alongside our esteemed industry, to ensure that Malaysia remains a top-of-mind destination among Muslim tourists. Let us move forward with purpose and calibre together, always remembering that many hands make light work.

Thank you.

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News Bites

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Inclusivity and sustainability Malaysia’ s ASEAN 2025 chairmanship advances Muslim-friendly tourism cooperation

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Building trust through experience European delegates explore Malaysia’ s Muslim-friendly tourism firsthand

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Steering ITC into its next phase ITC’ s new leadership is set to further advance Islamic tourism development

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Celebrating culture and experiences Negeri Sembilan highlights its unique Adat Perpatih heritage and ecotourism offerings

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‘ Meh Lah Johor!’ Visit Johor 2026 brings to life the state’ s diverse offerings

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When festivities converge Hotels embrace the Chinese New Year-Ramadan overlap in 2026

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Boosting travel trust MFAR recognition strengthens confidence among Chinese Muslim travellers

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Savouring the flavours of Ramadan Hotels in Malaysia prepare memorable curated iftar experiences

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Malaysia’ s first Green Mosque Masjid Al-Hasanah is a benchmark for green innovation and Muslim-friendly experiences

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Research and dialogue Two flagship ITC initiatives powering the future of Islamic tourism

- Mohammad Faisal Abu Suaib Khan

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