PUTRAJAYA, July 26 (Bernama) -- The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) today clarified that the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) complements, rather than replaces, the Malaysia Halal Certification (SPHM) in meeting the needs of Muslim travellers.
ITC said the clarification was issued following discussions on social media regarding the use of the term ‘Muslim-friendly’ and questions over its scope and meaning.
“MFAR is an official recognition programme developed by ITC based on specific guidelines to ensure that tourism products and services meet Muslim-friendly requirements, without altering or replacing existing halal certification requirements.
“The scope of MFAR covers, among others, tourist accommodation, travel agencies, spa and wellness premises, as well as other products and services within the tourism and hospitality ecosystem,” it said in a statement.
ITC said that for premises serving food and beverages, compliance with the requirements of the Malaysia Halal Certification is among the elements assessed under the MFAR recognition process, which is implemented in close collaboration with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
“The primary objective of MFAR is to provide a tourism experience that is comfortable, safe and guided by Islamic principles through the provision of prayer facilities, halal food and services that meet the needs of Muslim travellers,” ITC said.
It added that the MFAR approach has also gained international recognition, having been adopted in several overseas destinations, including Russia and Taiwan.
“The development of Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) has also contributed to Malaysia being recognised as the world's top Muslim-friendly tourism destination for 11 consecutive years,” it said.
ITC, which was established under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in 2009, also reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening Malaysia's position as a trusted Muslim-friendly destination globally, while encouraging the public to obtain accurate information on MFAR through its official channels.
-- BERNAMA