Malaysia requires unified support from diverse industry players to establish itself as a leading Muslim-friendly destination. The active involvement of travel agencies, hotels, and related service providers is pivotal in positioning Malaysia as the preferred choice for travellers, fostering unforgettable experiences that encourage return visits.
The country must strategically showcase its distinctive offerings, including Malay Cultural packages, Ramadan packages, and Muslim-friendly healthcare experiences, to enhance its standing in the Muslim-friendly tourism sector.
MALAY CULTURAL PACKAGES
Jessica Ooi, Director of Sales, Anytime Holidays Sdn Bhd, emphasised that the Malay Cultural packages were tailored for Muslim tourists. In collaboration with the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA), they are curating packages that encompass hotels with Muslim-friendly Accommodation Recognition (MFAR), halal-certified restaurants, and dedicated Muslim-friendly Tourist Guides (MFTGs).
“We are a multicultural nation and very Muslim-friendly. There are halal options everywhere, with numerous Muslim restaurants. This makes it very comfortable for Muslim tourists.”
She mentioned that the training provided by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) regarding Muslim-friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) allowed MICA members to gain a more in-depth understanding of Muslim culture. This knowledge helps them ensure a more comfortable experience for tourists.
RAMADAN BUFFET EXPERIENCE
“As we know, Malaysia is a multiracial society, which is sort of a festival by itself. We might think that it (the Ramadan experience) belongs to a certain sector of people in Malaysia, but it does not. Many people are looking forward to the month, especially the Bazaar Ramadan and Ramadan buffet, including Chinese and Indians,” said
Managing Director of Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Rafik Mohd Idris.
“What they look forward to the most is to enjoy the food. The same goes for the tourists. It is an attraction for them to come to Malaysia and enjoy this experience during Ramadan.”
Rafik stressed the importance of collaboration within the tourism industry to ensure the success of Muslim-friendly offerings. Authorities also play a crucial role in promoting globally the availability of Ramadan packages, allowing tourists to experience a unique and one-of-a-kind experience.
As a Muslim-friendly establishment, Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites is dedicated to offering its guests a distinctive Ramadan experience. The hotel presents a range of thoughtful offerings, including the Destinasi Rasa Ramadan Buffet, spacious Musollah for prayers, special room rates, Ramadan seminar packages, and Ramadan Experience Packages for 2024.
Notably, the hotel introduces a unique Ramadan buffet featuring the ‘Destinasi Rasa’ concept, showcasing traditional dishes from all states in Malaysia. Guests can purchase the Early Bird Ramadan voucher for RM135 nett (regular price: RM165 nett).
A MUSLIM-FRIENDLY HEALTHCARE DESTINATION
Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) is dedicated to positioning Malaysia as the premier global healthcare destination.
MHTC CEO Dr Mohamed Ali Abu Bakar noted a significant improvement in business post-pandemic, driven by an influx of health travellers from various countries. Indonesia has emerged as a leading contributor, with many attracted by the cultural similarities. Notably, there’s also a rising trend of health tourists from China, particularly for IVF facilities.
“We feel that countries like China, and even countries in the Middle East, find a resemblance in terms of culture when coming to Malaysia. Over the last year, we have worked together with organisations like ITC and others to make it more convenient for them.
“For example, in the Middle East, they prefer to come to Malaysia because of the perceived quality of services. Instead of solely focusing on Muslim-friendliness, they prioritise the quality of healthcare, the expertise of doctors, and the overall outcomes, considering them superior to surrounding countries. Price is not their primary concern.
“However, over the months, I’ve realised that they prefer to travel with their families, finding it comfortable to visit a Muslim country where finding a place to pray is easier, halal is not an issue, and they feel safe. When considering Muslim-friendliness, key criteria they look at are safety, the kindness of people, and the ease of travelling to Malaysia as a family.” – RnR
