Pahang sets eyes on lucrative Muslim tourism market

 

Pahang Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-governmental Organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal (middle, with songkok) along with Pahang Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man and Bentong member of parliament Young Syefura Othman with the imams at Sultan Ahmad Shah mosque in Bentong.

KUANTAN: Pahang is working to brand itself as an exciting Muslim-friendly destination by executing the necessary improvements to related products in a bid to lure Muslim travellers from around the globe.

Pahang Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said the east coast state has embarked on efforts to provide better experiences for Muslim travellers at various existing and soon to be introduced tourist destinations across the state.

"The state government is gearing up towards turning Pahang into a leading hub for Muslim-friendly tourism and this is done by offering facilities, and services that meet the needs of Muslim tourists.

"Pahang is certainly one of the best Muslim-friendly tourist destinations in the country especially in the state capital where visitors have the opportunity to experience breaking fast during the Ramadan month at the Kuantan City Council field next to the Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque. The practice started a long time ago," she said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Leong said Pahang is also renowned for its delicious and diverse halal food options with more than 5,000 restaurants and eateries in the state.

"The state government works closely with the Malaysian Islamic Development Department and halal certification bodies to ensure high compliance with the (halal) standards in the food and beverage industry. "This will provide confidence to Muslim tourists about the authenticity of their meals," she said.

Leong said the unique culture, heritage, history, natural attractions and existing tourism facilities in Pahang has made the state a must-visit destination for Muslim tourists who want to experience a memorable travel experience.

"Improving tourism facilities and infrastructures, continuous promotions and uplifting tourism-related services will allow Pahang to continue to attract more Muslim tourists from other parts of the world," she said.

Leong said currently 36 imams from 14 provinces in China were in Pahang as part of their seven-day visit to Malaysia through the 'Imam Familiarisation Trip: Explore Muslim-Friendly Malaysia'.

Meanwhile, State Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-governmental Organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal said the 36 imams who mostly spoke fluent Arabic, had performed their Zuhur prayers at the Sultan Ahmad Shah mosque in Bentong yesterday.

"Upon their return to China, the imams will promote the Muslim-friendly tourism packages in Pahang to their congregations. In China, they represent a congregation of about 30,000 Muslims.

"Their visit is an appreciation and recognition to the Pahang government for efficiently managing Islamic institutions including Islamic universities, mosques, and Maahad Tahfiz," he said in a Facebook post.

-nst online.