@Halal R&R - Rest & Rehlah September/October 2023 | Page 2

MESSAGE FROM
02 | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023
MESSAGE FROM

Director-General Islamic Tourism Centre

AS THE NEW Director-General of Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), I am pleased to take on the responsibility to assist and support the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture ( MOTAC ) in realising the aspirations embodied in the National Tourism Policy 2020-2030 .

This edition of Rest & Rehlah is released at a significant time as we celebrate Malaysia ’ s diverse Islamic Tourism and Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) experiences in the Islamic Tourism Month ( ITM ) 2023 . From Aug 17 to Sep 21 , 2023 , the public , domestic and international tourists are presented with valuable
hotel , spa , food , and travel package offers as well as mosque tourism experiences from 130 partners throughout the country . It ’ s a great platform for Malaysia to showcase our mesmerising culture , heritage , nature and modern attractions within a moderate , multicultural setting .
It ’ s truly heartening to see our strategic partners coming on board to support us in a big way , including the contribution of RM45,000 worth of prizes for the ITM 2023 TikTok Challenge . It ’ s a strong indication of the growing interest of our MFTH ecosystem from both the demand and supply side , and ITC is encouraged to do more beyond ITM 2023 .
Sincerely , I hope that the stories shared by our partners here will inspire more businesses to jump on the billion-dollar worth Islamic Tourism and MFTH ecosystem with us . Building upon the strong legacy left behind by my predecessors , ITC ’ s newly-rebranded Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) has great potential , leveraged by our strong advisory services , global reach , and focus on digital transformation .
Until then , my best wishes to the readers and all of our comrades in the industry .
Thank you .
Nizran Noordin
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P04-05 | COVER STORY Forging ahead The Islamic Tourism Centre ’ s new leadership continues the strong legacy forged by predecessors in enhancing the Islamic tourism ecosystem
P06 An impressive momentum Tourism Malaysia focuses on catering for market demands and upholds sustainability
P07 Ready to welcome Muslim travellers Perak aims to capitalise on Muslimfriendly tourism to enhance its existing offerings
P08-9 Great offers await ! Islamic Tourism Month 2023 showcases a month of exciting promotions
P10 Muslim-friendly hotels MFAR recognition assures Muslim travellers of the hotel ’ s Muslimfriendly services and facilities
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P11 Catering to the evolving needs of faith-based travellers Mastercard collaborates with banks and Islamic issuers to deliver Shariah-compliant products
P13 A transformative event Islamic Tourism Symposium 2023 paves the path for industry advancement and enhances the visibility of Islamic tourism
P14 Embracing Muslim-friendly tourism The Tioman Development Board is on a journey of awareness and collaboration
P15 Flavours of Malaysia Malaysia ’ s diverse culinary offerings are integral to the travel experience , enticing visitors to explore the country
P16 An unforgettable experience Hotel Seri Malaysia aims to provide a memorable experience for its guests through Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition
P17 News Bites
P18 Celebrating Muslim-friendly tourism experiences Islamic Tourism Month 2023 highlights Malaysia ’ s diverse array of Muslim-friendly products and services
P19 Emphasising warm hospitality MOTAC aims to reflect the spirit of Islam and Malaysian hospitality through Islamic tourism