A strategic move
Royale Chulan Seremban is one of the establishments recently honoured with the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC).
Its General Manager Abd Halim Md. Yusof stated that the MFAR recognition is more than just a certification; it is a strategic investment that reflects the hotel’s commitment to catering to the Muslim travel market.
He emphasised that it not only enhances credibility but also broadens market reach and aligns the property with global tourism trends, unlocking substantial potential for growth and revenue.
“Adopting Muslim-friendly branding for our hotel group stemmed from strategic, market-driven, and cultural considerations.
The internal stakeholders have been very supportive of this move to enhance revenue and diversify guest profiles.
The Muslim guests feel their needs are recognised and catered to, which increases loyalty and positive word-of-mouth among the Muslim community, which fosters goodwill and stronger relationships.
As for the investors and owners, they see a clear return on investment when occupancy rates improve, especially from markets like the Middle East and Southeast Asia; it enhances the reputation as an innovative and inclusive brand,” Halim elaborated.
“We ensured our halal certification was in order, then we upgraded our prayer facilities and amenities by providing more prayer mats and invited Jabatan Hal Ehwal Agama Islam Negeri Sembilan (JHEAINS) to revalidate the Qiblat directions.
We have also established our internal MFAR audit team to conduct periodic audits to ensure we comply with MFAR criteria and that standards are maintained or further enhanced.”
For the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration, Royale Chulan Seremban is set to welcome guests with a festive atmosphere featuring halal dining options such as Yee Sang, dim sum, and mocktails inspired by traditional Chinese flavours, along with prayer rooms, themed decorations, lion dance performances, and promotions on WeChat, Weibo, and local social media to engage both Chinese and regional audiences.
Located in the Lake Garden district, the heart of Negeri Sembilan’s capital, Royale Chulan Seremban is a 4-star suburban retreat that ensures guests experience ultimate comfort with its outstanding amenities and accommodations. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests can enjoy the scenic hilly landscapes of Seremban while indulging in the renowned hospitality that defines Royale Chulan Seremban.
Muslim-friendly hospitality in the heart of KL
AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown, has recently earned the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category, showcasing its commitment to providing the best Muslim-friendly hospitality.
AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur General Manager Shah Azam Khan highlighted the significance of this recognition: “The global Muslim travel market is projected to reach 230 million arrivals and US$ 225 billion in spending by 2028. Recognition through MFAR strengthens our appeal to this growing segment, particularly travellers from Malaysia and Indonesia. By focusing on operational excellence and delivering world-class Muslim-friendly facilities, this accreditation not only enhances the guest experience but also gives us a competitive edge in the hospitality market.”
To ensure a truly welcoming experience for Muslim guests, AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur has implemented a series of thoughtful initiatives. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a welcome drink and treats, setting a warm and hospitable tone. The hotel provides a QR-coded Islamic kit that includes prayer information, details of halal-certified dining outlets, nearby Islamic attractions, and mosques for added convenience. Each guestroom is equipped with prayer mats, a Quran, Qibla signage, and a prayer schedule, ensuring that spiritual needs are seamlessly catered to.
“To prioritise privacy, the hotel offers gender-segregated spa facilities and swimming pool timings, creating a space where guests can relax with peace of mind.”
The hotel is set to welcome Muslim travellers from China and local guests this Chinese New Year with a culturally inclusive celebration. The hotel will feature festive decorations, halal-certified versions of popular dishes like Yee Sang, and a fusion of Chinese and local flavours in its daily buffet. Special packages for Muslim travellers from China and CNY-themed souvenirs will further enhance the festive experience, ensuring a warm and inclusive celebration for all.
Nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown exudes elegance and modernity. With 294 tastefully furnished guestrooms, the hotel has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing a sophisticated new look that perfectly embodies refined hospitality. Strategically located in the vibrant city centre, guests are treated to easy access to Kuala Lumpur’s iconic attractions. A short stroll will lead you to Pasar Seni (Central Market), the majestic River of Life, and the awe-inspiring Merdeka 118, which is poised to become the world’s second-tallest building.
A scenic beach getaway
Klana Beach Resort aims to be a leading hotel in Port Dickson, offering services that align with Islamic values while meeting the expectations of Muslim-friendly standards. To achieve this vision, the resort provides a comfortable and welcoming accommodation experience, focusing on cleanliness and safety and catering to the specific needs of Muslim guests.
Recently, the resort was awarded the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category.
Klana Beach Resort Hotel Manager Che Dzarudin Che Omar explained that this recognition reflects the resort’s unwavering commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of Muslim tourists, providing them with assurance and confidence. He also emphasised that such recognition serves as a powerful branding and marketing tool to promote the resort within the Muslim tourist market.
“MFAR will provide an opportunity to not only set standards but also to enter the Muslim and non-Muslim markets. The Muslim-friendly concept has gained traction among several countries in the world.
“Therefore, we see the need for our hotel to capitalise on this market potential by obtaining Muslim-friendly recognition from trusted organisations like the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) so that we can also provide the necessary services. At the same time, we aim to raise the image of Klana Beach Resort as a Muslim-friendly destination.”
Klana Beach Resort, Port Dickson, is an ideal family getaway, offering a wide range of exciting and enjoyable activities for all ages. Guests can expect exceptional service, warm hospitality, and a memorable stay.
Situated at the 8th mile along the popular Teluk Kemang coastal road, just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, the resort offers stunning sunsets. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk, which provides access to both Pantai Teluk Kemang and Pantai Seri Purnama beaches.
KLANA BEACH RESORT’S CHINESE NEW YEAR OFFERINGS
- Create a festive Chinese New Year (CNY) ambience with decorations such as Chinese Tang Lung (lanterns) and CNY wishes imagery.
- On the 1st day of CNY, organise the CNY Pasma (Night Market – Street Food) with a Lion Dance performance, firecrackers, fireworks, and fun games.
- For marketing, collaborate with local travel agents and leverage social media platforms.
Luxury meets hospitality
Recognised with the prestigious Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category, Tasik Villa International Resort Port Dickson is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for Muslim guests.
Speaking on the importance of MFAR recognition, Halijah Hasnin, Human Resources Manager at Tasik Villa International Resort, emphasised the growing significance of catering to the Muslim travel market.
“For hotels, it’s essential to instil confidence among Muslim travellers. With the rising demand for Muslim-friendly accommodations and increased awareness among travellers, MFAR helps us showcase our dedication to meeting these needs. This recognition also promotes us as a trusted destination for Muslim travellers,” she explained.
Halijah further acknowledged the role of organisations like the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) in fostering awareness and opportunities for hotels to cater to this burgeoning market segment. To ensure a welcoming experience for Muslim guests, Tasik Villa International Resort has implemented several key measures. The resort offers halal-certified food, recognised by JAKIM, providing guests with peace of mind when dining. Accommodations are thoughtfully prepared with Muslim-friendly amenities, including Qibla signage, prayer mats, and religious reading materials in every room.
Located in the serene town of Lukut, Port Dickson, Tasik Villa International Resort is a 5-star retreat offering unparalleled comfort and elegance. The resort features 220 spacious rooms thoughtfully designed to cater to business, family, and leisure travellers. Built around a tranquil lake, the accommodations include Water Chalets, Superior Rooms, Deluxe Jacuzzi units, and exclusive villas with private pools, offering guests the ultimate blend of luxury and privacy. Each villa’s private dip pool adds a touch of indulgence, making it a perfect getaway for every traveller.
A relaxing, family-oriented resort
Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa is one of the accommodations that receive Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category.
Indra Gandhi, CEO of Lotus Desaru, expressed her thoughts on the recognition, stating that MFAR was an important milestone for the resort.
She explained that the criteria aligned well with the resort’s values, as the majority of their customers are Muslim. She emphasised that this recognition reflected their commitment to Muslim-friendly tourism, and the resort would continue to do its best to meet the needs of its guests.
With the growing number of Muslim travellers from China visiting Malaysia, Lotus Desaru is prepared to cater to their needs during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, as well as to local guests seeking to experience the festivities.
“For Muslim travellers, whether they are Chinese Muslims or Malaysian Muslims, the first criterion they seek is halal food. We make sure that all the food served is halal, and our kitchen is certified. Guests don’t need to worry about whether the food is halal or suitable for them to consume.
“We also provide Muslim-friendly facilities like proper prayer rooms, Qibla signage in the rooms, and prayer mats. We work with Jabatan Agama Islam Negeri Johor (JAINJ) in Johor to ensure that all our Qibla signages are accurate. Even for activities like barbecues, we make sure the food provided is halal so that our guests can enjoy their stay without concern.
“Lotus Desaru is a very family-oriented resort. We work with different partners to ensure we maintain a Muslim-friendly environment while offering a welcoming experience for all.”
Situated along Johor’s scenic eastern coastline, Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa enjoys a prime location on the famed palm-lined shores of Desaru Beach.
Distinguished by its enchanting castle-like architecture, the resort spans a stunning 47-acre site surrounded by lush jungle, soft sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa boasts 793 stylish apartment suites with a total of 1,317 rooms, offering options from one to four bedrooms.
The resort caters to adventure enthusiasts with a variety of recreational activities, including kayaking, snorkelling, jet-skiing, fishing, and banana boat rides. Guests can also enjoy its award-winning spa, water park, five dining outlets, gym, retail shops, and sea sports facilities. As Malaysia’s second-largest resort by room count, Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa guarantees an unforgettable stay, whether guests seek relaxation, excitement, or a mix of both.
Embracing Muslim-friendly hospitality
The Westin Kuala Lumpur, a distinguished hotel located in the heart of the city’s Golden Triangle, has long been renowned for its luxurious offerings and exceptional service. In response to the growing demand for Muslim-friendly travel experiences, the hotel has embraced the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) certification.
Earning the Silver category recognition, The Westin Kuala Lumpur not only highlights its commitment to providing a seamless and culturally respectful environment for Muslim travellers but also enhances its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
“Given Malaysia’s multicultural environment, this recognition is significant to us. It underscores the importance of being mindful of our surroundings, and we believe it adds significant value for our guests. It’s a wonderful acknowledgement for them to be part of this journey as well,” said General Manager Daniel Burstein.
“Our kitchen is halal-certified. With a growing number of Muslim travellers from China, we have developed plans to cater to their needs during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, as well as to offer local guests the chance to experience the festivities.
One of our strategies includes collaborating with Muslim influencers to promote our offerings and increase public awareness. We stay informed on industry trends, work closely with travel agencies and partners, and continuously evaluate these trends to adapt quickly and effectively.”
The Westin Kuala Lumpur offers a fantastic location in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle. Hosting modern and luxurious rooms, the hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool.
Guests also enjoy free WiFi and easy access to nearby shopping malls like Pavilion, Lot 10, and Sungei Wang. Additional services include in-room spa treatments, laundry services, and tour arrangements.
A premium destination for business and leisure
Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur, a renowned name in the Malaysian hospitality industry, has long been committed to offering exceptional service to all guests.
The hotel’s decision to adopt Muslim-friendly branding was driven by the rising demand for accommodations that cater specifically to the needs of Muslim travellers.
Having received the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) in the Gold category, Razmi Rahmat, Acting General Manager of Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur, explained that the MFAR certification serves as a symbol of trust for Muslim travellers, assuring them that the hotel’s facilities meet the highest standards of Muslim-friendly hospitality.
He highlighted that the certification aligns with Malaysia’s position as a global leader in Islamic tourism, thereby enhancing the country’s reputation and contributing to the growth of the halal tourism industry.
“We prioritise creating a culturally respectful environment by providing halal-certified kitchens, Qibla directions, prayer mats, Wudu facilities, and staff training on cultural sensitivities to offer a seamless experience for Muslim guests.”
Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a distinguished business hotel featuring 561 elegantly designed rooms, including Superior, Deluxe, Club, Suites, and luxurious Presidential Suites. Ideally situated close to the LRT and Putra Commuter Stations, the hotel is just 15 minutes from KL Sentral and 60 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, offering both convenience and comfort for its guests.
CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVITIES AT SERI PACIFIC HOTEL KL
For Muslim Travellers from China:
- Offer halal versions of traditional Chinese New Year dishes.
- Organise cultural experiences that respect Islamic principles, such as tea ceremonies and Chinese calligraphy workshops.
- Employ multilingual staff fluent in Mandarin to enhance communication and ensure comfort.
For Local Guests:
- Create a festive atmosphere with traditional decorations like lantern displays and lion dances, ensuring all food and beverages are halal-certified.
- Offer family-friendly activities, such as workshops on Chinese culture, while maintaining respect for Islamic values.
