MATA (Malaysian Tourism Agency Association) has strengthened its collaboration with tourism authorities in Hainan, China, in an effort to promote Muslim-friendly destinations to Malaysian tourists.
According to Ahmad Jafri Ngah Ali, Executive Committee member of MATA, this collaboration is carried out together with CKR Executive and several Malaysian travel agencies, including Orange Leisure, which offers attractive Muslim-friendly packages, with the main focus being to introduce key destinations in China that offer halal tourism experiences.
He explained that this programme allows Hainan to promote Malaysia to tourists from China, while Malaysian agencies can also learn about the halal tourism products available in Hainan.
“Our main objective was achieved when the parties there were able to provide information about Malaysia, and Malaysian agencies were able to learn about the development of halal tourism products in China. Several tour packages specially offered for the Muslim community include visits to mosques, halal restaurants, and other attractive destinations that comply with Shariah requirements,” he explained.
Through Orange Leisure, they have created several attractive packages for Hainan so that Muslim tourists can get to know this island as a Muslim-friendly holiday destination. There are various complete facilities for Muslim travellers.
Cities such as Sanya offer:
* Extensive halal restaurants
* Muslim-friendly hotels
* Prayer facilities, including mosques and prayer rooms
There are more than 6 mosques in Sanya, and approximately 10,000 Muslim residents live in the city. This allows Malaysian tourists to enjoy a holiday without worrying about their religious needs.
Additionally, Hainan is famous for its fruit season, especially lychees, which can be enjoyed between May and June. Tourists have the opportunity to:
* Enjoy fresh lychees directly from the orchard
* Take lychees home by paying according to the amount taken
* Join special orchard tour packages
This experience makes Hainan not just an ordinary holiday destination, but also a unique agro-tourism experience that appeals to Malaysian tourists.
This collaboration is expected to have a positive impact on the halal tourism industry, targeting the international market while emphasising safety, comfort, and a Muslim-friendly experience.
Ahmad Jafri concluded his remarks by expressing appreciation to all parties involved, while stressing that these ongoing efforts will continue to be strengthened in order to enhance tourism relations between Malaysia and China.
“Hainan not only offers tropical beach beauty but also increasingly comprehensive Muslim‑friendly facilities, making it an ideal choice for Malaysian tourists,” he said.
Sanya City is the main focus, with various halal restaurants, Muslim‑friendly hotels, and prayer facilities that make it easy for travellers to perform their prayers.
There are about six mosques in Sanya and more than 10,000 local Muslims, providing added comfort to visitors who wish to enjoy a holiday without any doubts regarding halal requirements.
Additionally, Hainan has a free trade port status, allowing travellers to enjoy more competitive prices for goods compared to other destinations in China.
This makes Hainan not only attractive for holidays but also for shopping enthusiasts who want quality products at lower prices.
Another unique experience offered is a visit to lychee orchards (lychee season), which takes place around May to June every year.
Travellers have the opportunity to enjoy fresh lychees to their heart’s content directly from the orchard, and if they wish to take some home, they only need to pay based on the amount taken.
This activity offers a different and fun experience, especially for families and tropical fruit lovers.
In terms of cost, tour packages to Hainan are offered at prices as low as RM1,899, including various attractive activities and experiences.
This price makes Hainan one of the most affordable overseas destinations for Malaysian travellers who want a unique experience without high costs.
The combination of Muslim‑friendly facilities, unique experiences such as the lychee season, freeport status, and affordable prices makes Hainan a future destination with great potential in the Malaysian tourism market.
According to Jimmy Goh, this combination of elements is expected to make Hainan a “hot‑selling” destination, especially during certain seasons like the lychee season, and the best opportunity for Malaysian travellers to enjoy a different and fun experience.
