SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023 | 19

With the launch of Islamic Tourism Month ( ITM ) 2023 , the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture ( MOTAC ), through the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), aims to extend a warm welcome that genuinely reflects the spirit of Islam and Malaysian hospitality .

“ In recent years , our concerted efforts to enhance the Muslim-friendly aspects of our tourism and hospitality industry have yielded significant results . We have invested in infrastructure to amplify the country ’ s Islamic tourism ecosystem , including the development of Muslimfriendly hotels , attractions , tourist guides , wellness centres and more ,” said Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan , MOTAC Deputy Minister , during the launch of ITM 2023 in Casuarina Convention Centre , Ipoh , Perak .

“ We trained our hospitality workforce to be more culturally sensitive , accommodating the diverse needs of our Muslim guests . Our commitment to providing visitors with a safe and welcoming atmosphere has been recognised internationally .

“ I am proud to announce that Malaysia has received numerous accolades and world recognition as a Muslim-friendly tourism destination . Malaysia was named the top country in the region in the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) sector by the State of the Global Islamic Economy ( SGIE ) Report 2022 .”

THE POTENTIAL OF THE MUSLIM TOURIST MARKET

The Muslim tourism market holds substantial potential for high expenditure ,

Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan during ITM 2023 launching ceremony .

contributing significantly to economic , socio-cultural , and environmentally sustainable growth . In 2022 alone , Muslims worldwide made an enormous impact by accounting for 110 million global tourist arrivals , corresponding to 68 per cent of the pre-pandemic levels observed in 2019 . By 2028 , Muslim global arrivals are expected to hit 230 million , with a projected expenditure of US $ 225 billion .

“ In Malaysia ’ s case , out of the 10.07 million international tourists Malaysia attracted last year since our transition to endemicity in April 2022 , Muslims have made up 2.12 million of the numbers , spending a total of RM5.37 billion ,” shared Firdaus .

He said this was a testament to the successful collaborative efforts among industry players , which align with the key strategies outlined in the National Tourism Policy 2020-2030 . He also highlighted that Islamic Tourism Month could become a signature event for Malaysia , drawing Muslim tourists from the local region and beyond .

ISLAMIC TOURISM MONTH 2023

“ ITM 2023 will deliver Muslim-friendly hospitality at hotels , spa and wellness experiences , nurturing spiritual retreats , special guided tours at mosques , events and exhibitions , exciting touristic activities , and delicious halal food – all at exceptional prices and promotions .

“ This year ’ s ITM experience is amplified by the use of QR technology , where , with just your mobile phone , you can scan and get instant access to exciting deals and promotions , along with essential information about the events , products and services that ITM partners have prepared especially for this celebrated month .”

Firdaus believes ITM offers a small glimpse of what Malaysia offers Muslim tourists worldwide . From the magnificent mosques that stand as architectural marvels to the serene Islamic gardens that invoke tranquillity , Malaysia is a canvas that beautifully showcases the legacy of Islamic civilisations .

“ As travellers journey through our nation beyond the month , they will find themselves captivated by the fusion of modernity and tradition , a testament to Malaysia ’ s harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures .

“ This is part of Malaysia ’ s offerings , as we aspire to become the Umrah Hub of the region , where pilgrims from the region can spend time holidaying in Malaysia before or after their trip to Makkah or Madinah . More details on this will be announced soon . Inshaallah , I assure you that this move will benefit Malaysians in the tourism industry and beyond .

“ To prepare for this exciting development , I urge all tourism industry players to join hands now with ITC in building an agile and robust Islamic tourism ecosystem ready to meet the needs of these Umrah travellers stopping in Malaysia . ITC is well-equipped to offer standards and recognition , training and development , and research to ensure Malaysia has the best Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality environment .” — R & R

The National Tourism Policy 2020-2030 addresses the need for transformation in Malaysia ' s tourism industry . The six transformation strategies in the National Tourism Policy 2020-2030 .