Zahid: Malaysia should build full ecosystem to lead global Muslim travel economy

Malaysia must transition from being a top Muslim-friendly destination to a leading hub in the global Muslim travel economy, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He proposed creating an ecosystem that links tourism with halal innovation, trade, technology, and local enterprises, generating opportunities for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and communities.

Zahid emphasized that a traveler's contribution extends beyond hotel bookings, encompassing various sectors such as transport, food, retail, entertainment, digital services, local products, and cultural experiences. He stated that tourism should be seen as an economic multiplier.

Addressing the Ministers and Chief Executive Officers Summit during the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo (WITEX) 2026, Zahid shared that international Muslim arrivals reached 196 million in 2025 and are expected to increase to 262 million by 2030, with an estimated travel expenditure of USD310 billion. He noted that modern Muslim travelers seek more than halal food, prayer facilities, and appropriate accommodation; they also look for business, wellness, cultural, nature, and adventure opportunities.

To remain competitive, Malaysia must embrace new technologies, develop talent through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and strengthen halal and Muslim-friendly standards.

At a press conference following his speech, Zahid stressed the need for Malaysia to diversify its Islamic tourism offerings and provide them throughout the year, catering to the evolving preferences of Muslim tourists. He highlighted that Malaysia possesses significant potential in Islamic tourism, not only during specific events like Aidiladha, Aidilfitri, or Ramadan, but also year-round, through a variety of Islamic tourism packages.

Regarding tourists from West Asia, Zahid emphasized that recent developments in the region have led many individuals to opt for Southeast Asia, necessitating intensified efforts to attract more visitors from this region to Malaysia via platforms such as WITEX.