Malaysia among top Muslim tourist destinations

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is still ranked among the top Muslim-friendly tourist destinations in the world, said Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nazri Abdul Aziz.

He attributed this to the availability of many halal-certified food outlets, prayer facilities, political stability and the warm hospitality.

“Almost one out of four tourist arrivals in Malaysia is a Muslim. Last year alone, we received some 5.2 million Muslim tourists,” said Nazri, whose speech was read by his deputy Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin at the launch of the World Islamic Tourism Conference and Expo 2016 yesterday.

He attributed another key factor to the government’s commitment to giving priority to the Muslim market.

Nazri pointed out the government’s first step was establishing the Islamic Tourism Centre in February 2009, aimed at developing Islamic tourism in the country.

“The ministry has also been working hard to improve the services provided at all tourism facilities to match the expectations of Muslim visitors,” he said, adding that the ministry also focused on non-Muslim travellers who came to Malaysia to experience the nation’s cultural diversity and natural attractions.

On the expo, Mas Ermieyati said such events provide great networking opportunities and extensive knowledge which would facilitate smooth creation and successful implementation of workable strategies. – by Adrian Phung