MalaysianUpdates

Tag: #IslamicTourismCentre

  • Global Muslim-Friendly Tourism Gets a Boost with ITC’s Strategic Collaborations

    Global Muslim-Friendly Tourism Gets a Boost with ITC’s Strategic Collaborations

    The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) has recently formed a significant partnership with three leading tourism associations—Bumiputera Travel and Tour Agents Association of Malaysia (BUMITRA), the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), and the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA)—with the aim to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a global leader in Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality (MFTH). The milestone was celebrated during a signing ceremony at One World Hotel.

    This strategic collaboration focuses on organising ‘familiarisation trip’ programmes for Imams from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Europe. These curated trips aim to highlight Malaysia’s rich Muslim-friendly ecosystem, including its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and urban attractions, positioning the country as a prime destination for Muslim travellers.

    During his speech at the event, ITC Director-General Nizran Noordin emphasized that the collaboration represents Malaysia’s commitment to creating a sustainable and robust Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem. He stated that by engaging influential Muslim leaders from China and Europe, the initiative aims to foster international awareness, generate business opportunities, and strengthen the country’s tourism sector. He also highlighted the success of the pilot programme conducted in January 2024, where 35 Imams from 14 Chinese provinces were welcomed. This initiative resulted in an influx of 58,000 Chinese Muslim tourists, generating RM92.8 million in tourism receipts within just two months.

    The familiarisation trips are set to bring substantial economic benefits, in line with Malaysia’s goal of boosting Muslim tourist arrivals and further establishing the nation’s tourism economy. Malaysia’s continuous top ranking in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) for nine years underscores its status as a leading Muslim-friendly travel destination.

    The familiarisation trips will begin with MICA’s 7-day, 6-night programme for Imams from China, starting on February 5, 2025. The trip will showcase Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly tourism offerings, including halal-certified restaurants, accommodations, iconic mosques, and other Islamic tourism destinations. The trips will be guided by ITC-certified Muslim-friendly tour guides. Additional trips organised by BUMITRA and MATTA are planned for later in the year, each designed to emphasize Malaysia’s key features as a Muslim-friendly destination.

    As part of the agreement, the participating associations are committed to increasing the number of Muslim tourists visiting Malaysia, in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 targets. The collaboration will contribute to achieving these goals, making Malaysia a top destination for Muslim travellers.

    The signing ceremony was attended by notable representatives, including Nizran Noordin from ITC, Dr. Wan Muhamad Adam Wan Norudin (President of BUMITRA), Dr. Cindy Seow (Deputy President of MICA), and Datuk Mohd Hizzat Bin Mohd Shah (Vice President of Research and Technology at MATTA). The event was witnessed by YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia. This collaboration marks a significant step in ITC’s mission to work alongside industry stakeholders, ensuring Malaysia continues to lead in Muslim-friendly tourism innovation, and providing seamless, enriching travel experiences for global Muslim tourists.

  • THE ISLAMIC TOURISM CENTER ORGANIZES A HIGH TEA EVENT TO EXPRESS APPRECIATION AND CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF ISLAMIC TOURISM MONTH 2023 (ITM 2023)

    Today is a significant day as the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) organizes a special Appreciation High-Tea event to express their sincere appreciation to the strategic partners, sponsors, and media professionals who have played a vital role in making Islamic Tourism Month 2023 (ITM 2023) a successful endeavor throughout the months of August and September.

    The Appreciation High-Tea is a testament to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of all parties involved who have played an instrumental role in disseminating the essence of Muslim-friendly travel experiences, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and showcasing the beauty of Islamic tourism.

    ITM 2023 has served as a powerful platform to showcase the rich tapestry of Malaysia’s culture, heritage, and the essence of tolerance that defines our nation. It is more than a celebration; it is proof of the diversity that makes Malaysia unique.

    Through ITM 2023, Malaysia not only welcomes visitors to experience the warmth of our hospitality but also invites them to explore the beauty of our traditions, historical sites, and the coexistence of various cultures. It’s a celebration of unity, creating a bridge that connects people from different backgrounds through the universal language of hospitality.

    ITC recognises the tremendous opportunities ITM can present for businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurs, and our youth. The potential within Islamic Tourism, marked by innovative Muslim-Friendly products and services, is vast.

    Malaysia’s aspiration to become a prominent Umrah Hub calls for more Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality (MFTH) offerings. A recent meeting between the Secretary-General of MOTAC, YBhg. Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, with the Saudi Tourism Board to discuss the matter further, was an encouraging development to strengthen Malaysia’s ties with Saudi Arabia.

    “This is an open invitation for businesses to venture into this Muslim Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) growing market, offering unique experiences that cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim travellers, and that can also be enjoyed by the non-Muslims. With the right blend of creativity and cultural sensitivity, entrepreneurs can tap into this lucrative market, fostering economic growth and expanding the horizons of our tourism industry,” said YBhg. Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman.

    “MOTAC would like to extend its deepest thanks to each and every media outlet and strategic partner who has played a part in making ITM 2023 a triumph. Your tireless efforts have not only elevated the profile of this event but have also contributed to building bridges of understanding and appreciation in our global community. May the stories and collaborations you’ve shared continue to resonate, inspire, and foster a world that embraces the beauty of diversity,” he added.

    Also speaking at the event, Director-General of ITC, Nizran Noordin said, “ITM 2023 provides opportunities for industry players to showcase their products and services in high demand by the Muslim tourist market. The domestic and international travellers get to experience Malaysia’s multi-cultural diversity and moderate Islamic lifestyle in a safe and welcoming environment.”

    Nizran added, “ITM 2023 has successfully achieved approximately RM2 million in sales derived from special promotions on accommodations, travel packages, spa and wellness experiences, food and beverages, shopping and retail offers, as well as events, seminars and exhibitions.”

    “In addition, through the ITM 2023 Tiktok Challenge, we also reached out to the younger generation, garnering more than 1 million views of the #DiscoverMFAR and #ExperienceITM2023. It’s one of the efforts we are making to engage more actively with youths,” he shared.

    The pinnacle of the evening featured the certificates presentation to more than 10 media partners in various categories, including television, radio, print, and online media for their outstanding coverage and special report on ITM 2023.

    Certificates of appreciation to 126 ITM 2023 strategic partners; Aras Mercu, Serai Group, Exec Travel & Tours, D&D Beauty House Sunway Putra Mall, Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA, Tamu Hotel & Suites, Nasyrul Quran Putrajaya, and Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad Kuala Lumpur, among others were also presented.

    The event also revealed the 30 winners of the ITM 2023 TikTok Challenge – out of more than 83 participants – to win RM45,000 worth of prizes sponsored by Mastercard, Resorts World Cruises, Sim Leisure Group (including Escape and Kidzania), Lost World of Tambun, and MyBurgerLab, highlighting the creativity and enthusiasm of participants.

    A special ceremony to formalise a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between ITC and the Malaysian Association of Hotels Training and Education Centre (MAHTEC) wrapped up the afternoon which further signifies a strengthened commitment to collaboration and mutual growth.

    ITM 2023 was organised by ITC from 21 August till 30 September 2023, over a month-long showcase of events, activities, and tourism offerings for the public, tourists, industry players, and entrepreneurs alike that presents itself as a gallery of the rich and unique Islamic tourism experiences regardless of their ethnicity or religion.

  • THE ISLAMIC TOURISM CENTRE’S INVOLVEMENT IN MIHAS 2023 SHINES A SPOTLIGHT ON MUSLIM-FRIENDLY TOURISM OFFERINGS

    The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), an agency operating under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), is actively involved in the Malaysian International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2023) from September 12th to 15th. This event is dedicated to highlighting Malaysia’s outstanding Muslim-friendly tourism offerings within the travel industry. You can find the ITC at Booth No. 11320 on Level 3 of Hall 11 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

    During the international showcase, participating partners under the ITC umbrella are Aora Spa and Wellness Jitra, Primula Beach Hotel Kuala Terengganu, Permai Hotel Kuala Terengganu and Klana Beach Resort Port Dickson.

    ITC is hopeful that the agency’s participation will bring together travel industry professionals, government officials, and key stakeholders from around the world to explore Malaysia’s diverse range of offerings that cater to all travellers.

     

    ITC will also offer an exclusive business networking session called Let’s Sembang Together on MFAR@MIHAS on 13 September located at MIHAS Corner, Level 1, Hall 2, MITEC from 10am – 1pm. Visitors to MIHAS are welcomed to join ITC there to understand about the potential of the Muslim tourist market and learn more about ITC’s Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) programme from Fitra Mohd. Ali, Industry Development Manager of ITC.

    Assistant Director of Industry Relations Section, Halal Management Department from Jabatan Agama Islam Selangor (JAIS) Ustaz Norakmal Mohamad will also be at the business networking session to share about Halal certification.

    Director-General of ITC, Nizran Noordin expressed excitement about the agency’s participation in MIHAS 2023, stating, “We are thrilled to present the diverse offerings that Malaysia has in store for Muslim travellers”.

    “Our commitment to inclusivity and providing exceptional experiences extends to all visitors, and we are excited to welcome Muslim travelers from around the world to explore the beauty and culture of Malaysia,” said the Director-General of ITC.

    In a celebration of Malaysia’s rich architectural tapestry throughout the recently-launched Islamic Tourism Month 2023 (ITM 2023), ITC’s visibility in MIHAS 2023 aimed at highlighting Malaysia’s diverse array of Muslim-friendly products and services, foster collaboration among industry stakeholders, and solidify strategic partnerships among the Islamic Tourism ecosystem players through the month-long event in September.

    On top of special promotions on accommodations, travel packages, spa and wellness experiences, food and beverages, shopping and retail offers, as well as events, seminars and exhibitions, this year’s ITM 2023 is also enhanced by the use of QR technology to provide the public with easy and instant access to the exclusive offers by ITM partners during the entire month.

    There is also a TikTok Challenge that the public can participate in to win special prizes sponsored by various industry partners that includes Mastercard, Resorts World Cruises, ESCAPE Theme Park, Lost World of Tambun, Kidzania and myBurgerLab. Among the top prizes are 30 prepaid cards pre-loaded with RM1,000 each by Mastercard.

    More details at the website itm2023.itc.gov.my