Perak aims to capitalise on Muslim-friendly tourism to enhance its existing offerings
INTERVIEW
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023 | 07
Ready to welcome Muslim travellers
Perak aims to capitalise on Muslim-friendly tourism to enhance its existing offerings
Royal Belum .
IN 2022 , Perak received the country ’ s second-highest number of domestic tourists , totalling 6,866,500 visitors .
It marked a significant increase of 406.19 per cent following the lifting of the movement control order ( MCO ), allowing citizens to travel without any restrictions .
To maintain this tourism momentum and establish Perak as a prime tourist destination , the State government , in collaboration with Tourism Perak and other relevant agencies , will be organising the Visit Perak Year 2024 ( VPY2024 ).
“ I am extremely proud of the positive achievements highlighted in the Department of Statistics Malaysia report . Every year demonstrates that Perak continues to be a tourist attraction , particularly for domestic tourists , based on the number of tourist arrivals to Perak ,” said Menteri Besar of Perak , Dato ’ Seri Saarani Mohamad .
The VPY2024 campaign is organised to boost and reinvigorate the growth of Perak ’ s tourism sector .
The target tourist arrivals for the VPY2024 are 8,000,000 domestic and 350,000 international tourists .
RECEIVING MULTIPLE RECOGNITIONS
Throughout the years , various destinations in Perak garnered recognition and were featured in numerous must-visit lists in international magazines such as Lonely Planet .
Other notable acknowledgements included Ipoh being acclaimed as one of the Top 3 Best Coffee Towns in Asia by The New York Times and Lonely Planet in 2018 .
Lonely Planet highlighted Ipoh and Perak as essential regions and States to explore in 2016 and 2017 , respectively .
Taiping , too , achieved distinction by being designated a Top 100 Sustainable Destination by the global organisation Green Destination in 2018 .
Furthermore , in 2019 , Taiping ’ s international accolades continued as it received the Sustainable Top 100 Destination Awards during the International Tourismus-Börse ( ITB ) trade exhibition in Berlin , Germany .
“ The influx of tourists to Perak has promoted growth in various sectors , including the F & B industry , hipster cafes , services , agriculture , and more . This has contributed significantly to the economic prosperity of all industries in the State .
“ It signifies the continuous advance-
Ubudiah Mosque , Kuala Kangsar , Perak .
Strategies and promotion by Perak
• Official Tourism Website and Portal : Perak maintains an official tourism website offering comprehensive information about Muslim-friendly attractions , accommodations , halal dining options , prayer facilities , and cultural experiences .
• Social Media Platforms : Perak actively utilises social media platforms such as Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , and YouTube to engage with potential tourists . Through these channels , the State government encourages Muslim-friendly tourism by sharing captivating visuals , informative videos , engaging stories , and travel tips .
• Collaboration with Travel Bloggers and Influencers : Perak collaborates with travel bloggers , influencers , and content creators specialising in Muslim-friendly travel . This
White water rafting activity in Selama , Perak .
collaboration extends to blog posts , vlogs , and social media content .
• Participation in Work Visits , Networking , and Tourism Exhibitions : The State government actively engages with the tourism industry by organising work visits , networking events , workshops , seminars , and participation sessions for travel agents and tourism stakeholders .
• Sponsorship of 200 Abayas for Mosque Visitors : Through Tourism Perak , the State government will sponsor 200 abayas for visitors exploring selected mosques across the State . This initiative aims to enhance the experience of travellers during their mosque visits , showcasing Perak ’ s commitment to accommodating and welcoming tourists .
Dato ’ Seri Saarani Mohamad .
ment of other sectors with emerging products , such as in Selama , renowned for the seven waterfalls and water activities ; Kerian , celebrated for the beauty of Pantai Ban Pecah , and Perak Tengah , which showcases the Malay Cultural Village of Pulau Misa , among others ,” shared Saarani .
ISLAMIC TOURISM IN PERAK
According to Saarani , the Perak government is aware of the significance of the Muslim travel market and is dedicated to promoting Muslim-friendly tourism to both domestic and international tourists .
“ One of the main reasons why Perak is an ideal destination for Muslim travellers is its rich Islamic heritage . The State boasts a vibrant collection of Islamic landmarks and sites with deep historical and spiritual value .
“ From the awe-inspiring architecture of the Ubudiah Mosque in the Royal Town of Kuala Kangsar to the serene ambience of the Islamic-influenced Dutch Fort on Pangkor Island , Perak offers a profound journey through Islamic history and culture .
“ Perak ’ s commitment to preserving and showcasing its Islamic heritage has been growing through collaborations with local Muslim organisations and community leaders .
“ This includes efforts to enhance halal food options and ensure halal certification throughout the region .
“ Furthermore , the State government has encouraged restaurants , hotels , and local food vendors with ' Muslim Friendly ' and ' No Pork No Lard ' claims to get halal certification .
“ Secondly , the State government has improved the availability and accessibility of prayer facilities in popular tourist areas . Close cooperation with tour operators has also led to including prayer times and Qibla directions in travel itineraries and guidebooks .”
Saarani said the Perak government had been promoting and providing exposure to Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides ( MFTG ) to ensure readiness to welcome both domestic and international tourists , especially those from the Muslim-friendly market .
There were several efforts to develop Muslim-friendly accommodations , including hotels and resorts that adhere to Islamic principles . These establishments offer separate swimming pools , privacy for women , and other facilities aligned with the needs of Muslim guests . — R & R