Hong Kong targets Muslim tourists from Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) wants to boost Malaysian tourist arrivals, particularly among Muslims.

HKTB regional director of Southeast Asia Simon Wong said Hong Kong was listed as the fifth best Non-Organisation of Islamic Cooperation country for Muslim travellers.

He said HKTB was working with travel agents and airlines to promote Hong Kong as a tourist destination, spurred by more than 500,000 tourists from Malaysia.

“Hong Kong has 200,000 Muslims. The city offers plenty of halal-certified dining options, easy access to prayer spaces, and accommodation options with halalcertified kitchens.”

He said this on the sidelines of Hong Kong Live here yesterday, a consumer event promoting Hong Kong’s offerings and to bring interactive activities and special travel deals to consumers.

Wong said Muslim tourists would get easy access to prayer spaces and halal-certified outlets due to the influx of Muslim travellers.

“We launched the Muslim guidebook, Warna-Warni Destination Hong Kong, featuring the latest happenings, festivals, must-visit attractions, restaurants and Muslim-friendly facilities.”

He said there was a dedicated page on DiscoverHongKong.com highlighting Muslim offerings on destinations.

“We want to cultivate the Muslim tourist segment in Hong Kong, while providing more services and facilities.”