Under the shining stars
September-October. 2025
24
MFAR: Travel Operating Businesses
Under the shining stars
Experience Muslim-friendly stargazing amidst the Penang National Park
A MUSLIM-FRIENDLY NATURE-BASED EXPERIENCE
To better cater to the needs of Muslim tourists, Yahabibi Travel Sdn Bhd ensures that all aspects of its nature-based overnight camping experience at Penang National Park align with Islamic values and sensitivities.
• In the absence of formal accommodation, male and female participants are separated to avoid ikhtilat, while families are provided their own dedicated spaces for added privacy and comfort.
• Meals are fully halal and prepared by Muslim operators. The programme schedule is arranged to respect prayer times.
• Campers are introduced to basic jungle survival skills, such as tent setup, along with Islamic astronomy, including methods to calculate prayer times and Islamic dates using nature.
• The tour is enriched with stories from the Islamic Golden Age, explaining how over 200 stars were named after Muslim scholars, reflecting Islam’ s rich legacy in astronomy.
STAR HEALING VS STAR GAZING
Star Healing is a light, meditative activity suited for beginners. It takes place in open, low-light areas, such as beaches or fields, where participants lie down and observe the night sky with the naked eye. No equipment is needed. The focus is on relaxation, mindfulness, and connecting with nature, with light guidance on visible stars or constellations.
Star Gazing is a more structured, educational experience. It uses telescopes or binoculars and begins with an introductory astronomy session. Participants learn to read star maps, identify constellations, and track the movements of the sun and moon. Typically held after dinner, it provides a more in-depth exploration of celestial observation.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PACKAGE
• In-house astro-guide
• Introductory Astronomy 101 session
• Star Gazing and guided Star Healing experience
• Exploration of the seasonal meromictic lake
• Visit to the Turtle Conservation Centre
• Observation of bioluminescent plankton and potential turtle landings
• River picnic experience
Participants learn to read star maps, identify constellations, and track the movements of the sun and moon.
Astronomy Tour Guide Workshop.
As a recipient of the Muslim- Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition( MFAR), Yahabibi Travel Sdn Bhd, a travel agency based in Penang, aims to diversify its offerings to better cater to Muslim travellers. One such package is its Star Healing and Stargazing experience at Penang National Park.
Syahir Maulana, formerly a nature guide and boatman at the park, and now serving as a Muslim- Friendly Tour Guide( MFTG) and city guide with the agency, explained that the aim at
One of the sessions at Astronomy Tour Guide Workshop.
Penang National Park is to introduce added value through Star Healing and Star Gazing, enhancing the existing activities already offered to tourists and visitors.
“ Normally, our activities would end in the late afternoon or around dinner time. However, with Star Gazing and Star Healing, the experience extends into the night. Unless there is a special celestial event, such as a solar or lunar eclipse occurring during the day, most of these experiences can only be enjoyed after 12.30 in the morning due to visibility conditions in Malaysia’ s skies.” – RnR
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