Islamic Tourism Month 2025 Showcases Malaysia’s Muslim-Friendly Spirit

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s rich fusion of faith, culture, and commerce took center stage today with the official launch of Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) 2025, a nationwide campaign that runs from Aug 18 to Sept 30.

Organized under the theme of Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) and guided by the values of Malaysia MADANI, ITM 2025 seeks to strengthen inclusivity, unity, and shared prosperity by offering meaningful travel experiences that connect people, culture, and community.

The launch ceremony at TGV Suria KLCC was officiated by Deputy Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, who highlighted Malaysia’s growing international recognition.

“Malaysia has once again secured top rankings in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 and the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2024/2025, reaffirming our position as the world’s leading Muslim-friendly destination,” he said.

He added that ITM 2025 builds momentum towards Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), while boosting opportunities for local businesses through authentic Muslim-friendly tourism experiences.

Diverse Offerings Across Eight Categories

Now in its fourth year, ITM presents a variety of packages and promotions across eight categories:Mosque Open Day, Accommodation, Travel Packages, Spa, Wellness & Healthcare, Food & Beverages, Events & Exhibitions, Shopping & Retail, Tourist Attractions & Theme Parks

These offerings cater to families, solo travelers, female tourists, and entrepreneurs alike.

Back by popular demand, the ITM TikTok Challenge invites participants to share creative videos of their ITM experiences using the hashtag #ExperienceITM2025. Prizes worth over RM50,000 are up for grabs, including a holiday to Xi’an, China, and a luxury sailing getaway with Aroya Cruises.

Acting Director-General of the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), Nur Alyssa Coraline Yussin, noted that since ITM’s inception in 2022, the campaign has attracted over 300 industry partners, generating more than RM5 million in value.

“With VM2026 around the corner, we are ready to showcase Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly culture to the world. ITM is not just about travel but about celebrating a way of life that is authentic, inclusive, and accessible,” she said.

ITM 2025 also coincides with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, positioning the campaign as a platform to promote inclusive regional tourism. From January to April 2025, Malaysia recorded strong arrivals from ASEAN neighbors:Singapore: 6.52 million visitors (+28.5%), Indonesia: 1.46 million visitors (+11.6%) Thailand: 833,610 visitors (+3.4%)

This growth underscores Malaysia’s appeal as a hub for Muslim-friendly tourism in Southeast Asia.

Members of the public can explore ITM’s offerings and promotions at www.itm.itc.gov.my and follow updates on Instagram (@itm_itc) and Facebook (Islamic Tourism Month).

At its core, ITM 2025 reflects the values of Malaysia MADANI sustainability through responsible travel, inclusivity and diversity, compassion in hospitality, and innovation through digital engagement. More importantly, it is a celebration of shared prosperity, bringing communities, businesses, and visitors closer together through Malaysia’s vibrant Muslim-friendly spirit.

# Voice of Malaysia News