Open mosque doors to non-Muslims to bridge misconceptions, says Zahid
BAGAN DATUK: Mosques should keep their doors open to non-Muslims, including tourists, to provide them with a closer understanding of Islam and help bridge misconceptions about the religion, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the deputy prime minister, has suggested that mosques should welcome non-Muslims, including tourists, to better understand Islam and dispel misconceptions. He believes that mosques can play a more significant role by engaging with visitors, answering their questions, and sharing stories about the history, heritage, and values of mosques.
Zahid stated that the way mosques are welcomed, questions are addressed, and stories are shared will influence non-Muslims' perception of Islam and their memories of Malaysia upon their return to their home countries. He emphasized that a positive experience can alter long-held perceptions. This idea was conveyed at the launch of the 2026 National Mosque Open Day programme, delivered by Zahid, who was unable to speak due to illness.
The programme aims to turn mosques into open spaces for learning about Islam in a courteous and respectful atmosphere. The Masjid Tuminah Hamidi, completed in 2023 to honor Zahid's late parents, will be Malaysia's 98th Tourism Mosque, illustrating that a mosque's greatness lies in its ability to foster communities, promote knowledge, and exhibit compassion.
Zahid highlighted that mosques have historically served purposes beyond worship, such as centers for knowledge, consultation, welfare, and mutual assistance. He stressed that the true measure of a mosque's worth is its role in nurturing communities with knowledge, brotherhood, and providing guidance, assistance, and hope. As the chairman of the Halal Industry Development Council, Zahid emphasized the need to expand Malaysia's halal industry, which last year generated RM68.52 billion in exports.
He proposed strengthening the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) ecosystem through standards, training, and industry recognition, with mosques playing a crucial role. Zahid also acknowledged the contributions of Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides (MFTGs), including non-Muslims, in helping visitors understand mosques' history, heritage, and values.
He stressed that mosques can be integral to tourists' journeys to explore Malaysia's history, culture, and Islamic civilization, leaving visitors with more than just photos of beautiful mosques, but also memorable experiences of Malaysian hospitality and Islamic values.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
