06 WITC 2024
06 WITC 2024
November-December . 2024
GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY
LEADERS CIRCLE :
A CONVERSATION ON FORGING CONNECTIONS
THE tourism industry is continually evolving , with new trends and perspectives shaping its future . The panel titled “ Leaders Circle : A Conversation on Forging Connections ” served as a crucial platform for discussing the future of tourism .
Moderated by Islam Channel Founder Mohamed Ali Harrath , the session delved into the growing influence of Islamic tourism as a cultural and economic bridge .
• Chairman of the International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies ( IAIS ) Malaysia , Dr Maszlee Malik , advocated for broadening the definition of Islamic tourism beyond traditional elements like food and customs . He proposed a universal app for Muslim travellers that would provide personalised recommendations for halal food , accommodations , and airlines , simplifying travel for this demographic . He stressed the importance of digital media in promoting Islamic culture and called for greater collaboration among Muslim-majority countries to enhance cross-border tourism . Additionally , he called for improvements in Malaysia ’ s tourism marketing , suggesting the use of media platforms like films and AI-driven
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personalised travel experiences to attract visitors .
• Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) Director-General Nizran Noordin highlighted Malaysia ' s commitment to accommodating Muslim travellers by ensuring industry stakeholders cater to their needs through Muslim-friendly services , products , and targeted marketing strategies . He emphasised that infrastructure
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Session on Leaders Circle ; A Conversation on Forging Connections .
development must be prioritised to support tourism growth fully .
• Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Malaysia , Karomidin Gadoev , underscored Uzbekistan ’ s rich Islamic heritage , featuring 784 Islamic shrines , and its emerging status as a Muslim-friendly tourism destination , particularly in cities like Samarkand and Bukhara . He , along with Nizran , emphasised the potential for regional cooperation
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, suggesting interconnected travel routes and partnerships to maximise tourism benefits . In conclusion , the panel reached a consensus that Islamic tourism holds significant potential as both an economic driver and a means of cultural exchange , with collaboration , infrastructure , and innovative marketing strategies essential for success . |
PROMOTING ISLAMIC HERITAGE AS A DRIVER FOR TOURISM
CULTURAL heritage serves as a powerful tool for attracting tourists and enriching their travel experiences . The panel discussion on “ Promoting Islamic Heritage as a Driver for Tourism ” examined how Islamic history , culture , and heritage can enhance tourism in countries such as Uzbekistan , Spain , and Malaysia .
Moderated by Halaluxe Founder Anis Ramli , the session focused on integrating Islamic heritage into tourism .
• The co-founder & managing director of Hasana Travel Uzbekistan , Bekhruz Mukhtorov , highlighted Uzbekistan ’ s rich Islamic heritage , emphasising scholars like Ibnu Sina and Imam Bukhari . He discussed Bukhara ’ s recognition as a leading Muslim-friendly destination in 2024 and Uzbekistan ’ s preservation of Islamic manuscripts alongside interactive tourism offerings such as Islamic arts and archery .
• The director of the Spain Tourism Board , Marta Fernández Martín , discussed Andalusia ’ s Islamic legacy , reflected in architectural sites in cities like Granada . Spain promotes Islamic heritage through traveller guides and educational programmes , integrating historical contributions with modern tourism .
• The director of Research & Training at the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), Nur Alyssa Coraline Yussin , described initiatives like the Muslim- Friendly Tourist Guide ( MFTG ), which seeks to enhance tourist engagement with Islamic landmarks . She highlighted Malaysia ’ s rich Islamic heritage , including over 20 mosques listed as national heritage sites . The panellists agreed that Islamic heritage tourism has the potential to be a major driver of growth , emphasising inclusivity and education .
The session also stressed the importance of preserving heritage sites and empowering local communities to become knowledgeable guides , making Islamic heritage a universal cultural legacy for all visitors .
INSPIRING ENTREPRENEURSHIP
ENTREPRENEURSHIP plays a vital role in shaping economies and fostering innovation in today ’ s dynamic landscape . The “ Inspiring Entrepreneurship ” session highlighted the entrepreneurial mindset , focusing on resilience , mentorship , and adaptability .
Moderator Gary Bowerman , Director of Check-In Asia , initiated the discussion by emphasising the risk-taking nature of entrepreneurs .
• CEO of Muzz , Shahzad Younas , stressed the importance of hard work and commitment , advising against rushing into entrepreneurship without dedication . He
The panel discussion on Promoting Islamic Heritage as a Driver for Tourism .
shared that success often comes through sustained focus and “ happy accidents ” along the way .
• Executive Director of KL Wellness City , Dato ’ Sri Vincent Tiew Soon Thung , introduced the intrapreneurship concept , illustrating how employees can take ownership roles within an existing framework . He shared his experience building a medical city in Malaysia , highlighting the growth of medical tourism , especially for Indonesian tourists . Vincent emphasised passion and stakeholder support in executing large-scale projects .
• Founder of Sisters in Business , Jennifer Ogunyemi , discussed the growing number of women entering entrepreneurship , driven by a desire for change . She referenced Forbes data showing that 65 per cent of women are now involved in entrepreneurial ventures and highlighted the critical role of Muslim women in the halal industry . Jennifer encouraged women to embrace challenges , especially in male-dominated industries and stressed the importance of support systems and mentorship . The panellists agreed that mistakes were learning opportunities ,