@Halal R&R - Rest & Rehlah September/October 2025 | Page 22

Pioneering Muslim-Friendly Outdoor Hospitality
September-October. 2025
22
MFAR: Innovative Accommodation

Pioneering Muslim-Friendly Outdoor Hospitality

A promising experience from Glamping Park Travels and Tours Sdn Bhd( GPTT)
Guests can enjoy building a campfire.

Glamping, a blend of glamour and camping, offers travellers the experience of nature without sacrificing luxury or convenience. In Malaysia, the trend has seen steady growth with the emergence of multiple sites nationwide.

Glamping Park Travels and Tours Sdn Bhd( GPTT), led by Founder and CEO Mohd Nor Arif Mohd Azmi, manages two of the country’ s well-known sites: Gopeng Glamping Park( GGP) in Perak( launched in 2018) and Glamping Wetland Putrajaya( GL @ W)( launched in 2021).
Both locations attract a strong domestic base, with 70 per cent of guests being families, followed by groups and individual travellers. Foreign visitors, while currently less than 10 per cent, are steadily growing, particularly from Japan and Korea.
ADOPTION OF MFTH STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATION
GPTT has adopted the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality( MFTH) standards( MS2610), developed by the Islamic Tourism Centre( ITC) and the Department of Standards Malaysia. Both GGP and GL @ W are certified by SIRIM and are in the process of receiving Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition( MFAR) from ITC.
Muslim-friendly practices already embedded at the sites include:
Both sites also feature night performances, fire shows, and campfires.
Mohd Nor Arif Mohd Azmi.
• Halal-certified kitchens and food services( endorsed by JAKIM).
• Alcohol-free environment.
• Modest dress code for staff and guests.
• Facilities for prayer and religious observance.
According to Arif, ITC’ s terms and conditions for recognition are“ excellent and comprehensive,” striking a balance between strictness and attainability.
BUSINESS IMPACT OF CERTIFICATION
Obtaining relevant certification has strengthened GPTT ' s market positioning by inspiring greater confidence among Muslim travellers, while also reassuring non-Muslim visitors of its ethical and family-friendly services.
The recognition has been actively promoted through social media, flyers, and posters, resulting in a notable increase in bookings from Muslim visitors.
Arif emphasises that awareness of the Muslim travel market’ s economic potential must be raised among industry players, particularly SMEs. He sees ITC’ s training and recognition programmes as crucial in helping local operators grow and align with global tourism demands.
ENHANCING THE GUEST EXPERIENCE
Beyond accommodation, GPTT integrates adventure and leisure activities to
enrich guest experiences. At GGP, guests can enjoy water rafting, hiking, and visits to nearby natural attractions, including Gua Tempurung. At GL @ W, offerings include ATV rides, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and paddle boating.
Both sites also feature night performances, fire shows, and campfires, making them attractive for families, groups, and corporate team-building events. – RnR
Night view of the glamping site.
Guests can enjoy many activities at the site.