14 | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023

BY SHEILA ROZARIO

Tioman Island , with its breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty , has been a destination of choice for many .

REDEFINING THE LANDSCAPE

Recently , Tioman ’ s story wrote a new chapter around Muslim-friendly tourism . Tioman Development Board ( TDB ) General Manager , Dato ’ Idros Yahya , has led a transformative initiative to make the island a haven for all visitors , particularly those seeking halal experiences .

“ When I joined the Tioman Foundation in 2021 , we could not introduce the Muslim- Friendly Tourism Programme ,” said Idros .

“ Although we had implemented the halal registration by JAIN and JAKIM , it was not yet comprehensive . At that point , only two restaurants held halal certification .”

Recognising the potential and the need to expand the horizons of Muslim-friendly offerings , Idros embarked on a journey to weave awareness into every thread of the island ’ s tourism fabric .

“ I noticed a void that begged to be filled . We needed to implement a programme uniting the Tioman Development Board and the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ).

“ This was to uplift the standard of Muslim-friendly experiences across hotels , hospitality , tourist guidance , and boat operators .”

THE FOUNDATION OF CHANGE

This journey began with the cornerstone of awareness .

“ Our first mission was to introduce the concept of Muslim-friendly tourism . We sought to spread the word about the existence of a dedicated programme to cater to the needs of Muslim travellers .”

A significant leap forward came with a partnership with the ITC , which bore fruit in the form of a seminar titled Let ' s Sembang Together on Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ).

This seminar , held on the idyllic shores of Tioman Island , brought together the Tioman Foundation , hotel management , village leaders , and organisations overseeing accommodations , including MAH ( Malaysia Association of Hotels ) and MyBHA ( Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association , Pahang Chapter ).

Dato ' Idros Yahya The view of Tioman Island .

This seminar exemplified a comprehensive approach , harmonising stakeholders who wanted to enhance the landscape of Muslim-friendly tourism . Through strategic alignment with reputable institutions such as MAH and MyBHA , the aim was to cultivate synergistic collaboration across the industry .

The shared aspiration was to imbue the essence of Muslim-friendly tourism within the very fabric of every establishment and encounter across the island .

ADAPTING AND ELEVATING EXPERIENCES

In the effort to create a sanctuary for Muslim-friendly tourism , Dato Haji Idros understood that the journey requires more than good intentions . It involves incorporating purposeful parameters into every aspect of the traveller ’ s journey .

Tioman Development Board and ITC embarked on a mission to redefine the island ’ s offerings with a shared commitment .

“ When we first began our journey towards embracing Muslim-friendly tourism , we recognised that certain elements were missing . We endeavoured to address these gaps through collaboration with ITC and a thorough development plan review .

“ A standout example is our approach to facilitating activities that might require more time , such as mountain climbing . To cater to the needs of Muslim visitors , we have taken steps to ensure that the qiblat direction is marked within forested areas .

“ We ’ ve also identified water sources and suitable spots for rest and prayer . Providing these facilities and information empowers travellers to engage in activities while

adhering to their religious obligations .

“ In the realm of island tourism , water activities often take centre stage , captivating visitors with the allure of snorkelling , diving , windsurfing , and more . While these activities are exciting , we focus on those demanding a significant time commitment .

“ Our mission is to help Muslim visitors integrate their faith into their experiences seamlessly . For instance , our timing for certain activities accounts for prayer times , allowing visitors to engage without compromising their religious duties .”

He articulated the significance of discerning that not every activity mandates specialised facilities . Activities like snorkelling or diving , typically spanning one to three hours , do not infringe upon stipulated prayer times . However , pursuits such as fishing , which encompass more protracted durations , necessitate a more extensive logistical framework .

This accentuates the indispensable role of imparting comprehensive education to guides and boatmen . Through meticulous training , they cultivate a nuanced comprehension of prayer protocols and etiquette , ensuring visitors of the Islamic faith can observe their religious commitments even in maritime settings .

EXTENDING VISION , FOSTERING COLLABORATION

Idros underscored that although a substantial proportion of entrepreneurs on Tioman Island were Muslims , their overarching vision encompasses all commercial establishments .

Acknowledging the impracticality of expeditiously transforming the entirety of the 332 business premises , their stra-

One of the resorts in Tioman Island , tegic focus pivots toward prioritising larger hotels , predominantly catering to international demography .

Collaborative endeavours with the Islamic Affairs Department further streamline the provision of lucid guidelines and comprehensive support for the seamless assimilation of Muslim-friendly practices .

On halal food , he added : “ We ’ re committed to expanding halal dining options on the island . Our approach is strategic ; we aim to foster quality over quantity . We ’ re working closely with the Islamic Affairs Department and business owners to ensure that the establishments committed to halal standards receive the necessary certifications . Our goal is to gradually increase the number of certified halal restaurants on the island , enhancing the choices for our visitors .”

A CASHLESS SOCIETY ISLAND

Embracing a future where convenience meets nature , the TDB joined hands with Bank Simpanan Nasional ( BSN ) to introduce electronic payments , igniting a cashless revolution .

“ Through BSN ’ s e-Biz online system , local traders gain access to bank accounts and the chance to monitor their finances ,” Idros explained .

“ This innovation not only transforms transactions but also fuels growth . It ’ s a stepping stone for businesses to expand , aided by systematic bank accounts . “ Beyond financial benefits , this leap accelerates internet connectivity , enticing digital nomads to explore Tioman ’ s natural beauty .”

THE PROMISE OF COMMITMENT AND INCLUSIVITY

Idros said their journey was dynamic , rooted in collaboration , understanding , and continuous improvement . The path to Muslim-friendly tourism is paved with unwavering dedication .

As the sun sets on Tioman Island , it leaves behind the promise of a brighter tomorrow , where the embrace of Muslimfriendly tourism offers travellers a haven of warmth , inclusivity , and cherished memories . With leaders like Idros at the helm , the island ’ s future shines as brightly as its sun-drenched beaches . — R & R