On 3 September 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) 2024 Familiarization Trip, organized by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) under Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC). This event was a deep dive into Malaysia’s rich Muslim-Friendly Tourism offerings, showcasing why the country is a top destination for Islamic tourism.
Kampung Baru: A Step Back in Time to Start the Day
Our day began at the Raja Uda MRT Station in Kuala Lumpur, where the ITC team welcomed local and international Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and media representatives. We enjoyed a traditional breakfast at Warung Mak Nenek, located in the historic neighbourhood of Kampung Baru, a living museum of Malay culture, before embarking on the Magical Kampung Baru Tour. This tour offered a glimpse into Malaysia’s heritage, with a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern city life.
Lunch and Insight at KL Tower with ITC Director-General
Following the Kampung Baru experience, we visited the iconic KL Tower, one of the world’s tallest telecommunications tower in the world, for lunch at Aras Restaurant. The breathtaking views were only matched by the valuable insights shared by ITC Director-General, Encik Nizran Noordin. During the session, he elaborated on the objectives of Islamic Tourism Month 2024 and how it aims to position Malaysia as a premier destination for Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH).
We learned about the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR), an exclusive certification awarded to hotels and services that cater to the specific needs of Muslim travelers. This initiative, spearheaded by ITC, reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in providing quality Islamic tourism experiences on a global scale.
A side from lunch at Aras, there were two other interesting activities I think you should be a part of:
Sky Box: The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush
Suspended more than 300 meters above the ground, this glass-floored Sky Box is not for the faint of heart. As you step inside, the transparent floor gives you a clear view of the dizzying heights below, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience that you won’t soon forget.
The view from the Sky Box is breathtaking, offering a 360-degree panorama of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. Whether it’s the majestic Petronas Twin Towers, the bustling city streets, or the lush greenery of Bukit Nanas, the sights are awe-inspiring. But the real thrill comes from the sensation of being suspended high above the ground, feeling like you’re floating in mid-air. For adrenaline junkies and Instagram enthusiasts alike, the Sky Box is a must-do at KL Tower.
Tower Walk 100: A Scenic Stroll Above the City
For those looking for another heart-pounding adventure, the Tower Walk 100 is an incredible experience. This outdoor skywalk takes you around the circumference of KL Tower, giving you an unobstructed view of the city from 100 meters above the ground. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Kuala Lumpur while enjoying a scenic stroll that’s unlike anything else.
Walking along the edge of the tower, with only a safety harness keeping you secure, is both thrilling and surreal. The Tower Walk 100 lets you appreciate the architectural marvel of KL Tower and its surrounding urban jungle from a completely unique perspective. It’s not just about the views but also the experience of walking at such heights, with the wind in your face and the city sprawling beneath your feet.
Shah Alam: Islamic Arts and Cultural Immersion
The afternoon took us to Shah Alam, where we explored the Selangor International Islamic Arts Complex. This cultural hub was an artistic feast for the eyes, with intricate Islamic art pieces that reflect the beauty and depth of Malaysia’s Islamic heritage. The visit enriched our understanding of how art plays a key role in preserving and promoting Islamic culture in Malaysia. I got the chance to learn how to write khat calligraphy in the workshop organised for us.
Our next stop was the Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites, a shining example of MFAR-certified hospitality. We were greeted with refreshments and taken on a tour of the hotel, which is designed to cater specifically to Muslim guests, offering halal dining, prayer facilities, and more.
Halal Culinary Delights: A Fusion at Tung Yuen Chinese Restaurant
To end the day, we indulged in a one-of-a-kind dinner at the Tung Yuen Chinese Restaurant. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of Chinese flavors, all prepared in compliance with halal guidelines. The evening’s highlight was a cooking demonstration, where chefs showed us how they integrate halal principles into traditional Chinese dishes, offering an exciting blend of taste and culture.
Islamic Tourism Month 2024: Your Gateway to Muslim-Friendly Malaysia
The familiarization trip offered a firsthand look at the exciting offerings of Islamic Tourism Month 2024. Running from 16 August to 30 September 2024, this event is designed to highlight Malaysia’s exceptional range of Muslim-Friendly Tourism experiences. Visitors can enjoy exclusive promotions across various sectors, including accommodation, spa and wellness, food and beverage, shopping, and more.
Among the exciting promotions available during ITM 2024 are:
◉ Accommodation: Enjoy up to 40% off at Lavender Inn Permas in Masai,
Johor, or a 25% discount at ERYA by Suria Hotel in Bentong, Pahang.
◉ Spa & Wellness: Indulge in a 50% discount on beauty and wellness packages
at Tuah Teja Spa in Penang.
◉ Travel Packages: Obtain specially discounted holiday packages to explore
Malaysia’s nature, heritage, culture, cuisine, and more.
◉ Events and Exhibitions: Connect and convene with experts in the 4th World
Islamic Tourism Conference (4th WITC).
◉ Mosque Open Day: Discover beyond the beauty and history of Malaysia’s
iconic mosques, and participate in family friendly local activities.
In addition, ITM 2024 introduces an exciting TikTok Challenge with prizes worth
RM50,000 for the most creative and talented TikTokers. Participants simply need to enjoy their vacation or visit ITM’s participating partners, record and share their experiences on TikTok with captivating posts and hashtag #experienceITM2024. Prizes include Umrah packages for two, various holiday packages, and prepaid
cards.
For more information about ITM 2024 and to explore the full range of promotions and activities, please visit itm.itc.gov.my.
dixonthum 