ITC’s courtesy visit to TYT Penang
The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) was honoured to make a courtesy visit to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang, Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi Haji Abdul Razak, at his official residence, Seri Mutiara, on 9 May 2024.
The visit followed several Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) programmes organised by ITC for Penang’s industry players this year. During the nearly two-hour meeting, ITC and Tun Ahmad Fuzi exchanged views on the opportunities and potential for Penang to become a prime destination for Muslim tourists.
Tun Ahmad Fuzi provided valuable suggestions to further invigorate Penang’s tourism industry. ITC expressed gratitude for his attention and support, emphasising its enthusiasm and readiness to collaborate with the State Government, tourism industry players, and other stakeholders to enhance the MFTH ecosystem in Penang.
ITC celebrates partners in a joyous industry networking session
The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) hosted some 500 long-time and new partners in a joyous Industry Networking Session, at Temu Hall, KL Tower on 25 April 2024. The networking session was organised just as Muslims around the world welcomed the Islamic month of Syawal, the season for forgiveness and reconnecting, two weeks prior.
ITC Director-General Nizran Noordin unveiled ITC’s 2024 plans during the event, including signature programmes like the World Islamic Tourism Conference (WITC) in September and Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) from 16 Aug to 30 Sep 2024.
The diverse gathering included ambassadors, high commissioners, policymakers, hoteliers, travel agents, tourist guides, and media representatives, all united in their dedication to fortify Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
ITC Director-General visits Yayasan Al-Jenderami
The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) Director-General Nizran Noordin, had the privilege of visiting Yayasan Al-Jenderami in Desa Jenderam, Selangor, on 4 June 2024.This non-governmental organisation (NGO) remains committed to preserving traditional Islamic education while adapting to the demands of modern development and the passage of time.
During the visit, ITC seized the opportunity to delve into the concept of pondokstay—a traditional Islamic learning institution with the elements of community-based tourism—and explore best practices that continue to capture the hearts of both local and international travellers.
Gratitude was extended to Yayasan Al-Jenderami, under the leadership of its Chairman Abdul Razak Dato’ Haji Ipap, for warmly receiving the ITC delegation. The foundation’s efforts in promoting the pondokstayconcept were deeply appreciated and serve as a commendable example for others to emulate.
Melaka keen to explore Islamic tourism
On 23 May 2024, the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) hosted a Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) Awareness Seminar at the Courtyard by Marriott Melaka. The event gathered key players from various sectors of the tourism industry.
The one-day programme featured sessions from ITC, the Chief Minister of Melaka’s Office, and the Jabatan Agama Islam Melaka (JAIM). Discussions focused on ITC’s Muslim-friendly initiatives, current tourism trends in Melaka, and the importance of halal practices in the Muslim-friendly sector.
The seminar saw a strong turnout of over 80 participants, reflecting significant interest from Melaka’s industry players in engaging with the Muslim tourist market. – RnR