SHAH ALAM, Dec 23 — Systematic, ethical mosque tourism could be an effective medium to spread the message of Islam as a religion of kindness, and strengthen national unity among a plural society, said Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah grand imam Datuk Muhammad Farhan Wijaya.
He said the approach allows mosques to function not just as a house of worship, but as a learning space where culture and religion interact.
“The mosque institution also provides a space for the people to understand Islam moderately and insightfully through an ethical tourism approach,” he said at the launch event for Mosque Open Day here today, reported Sinar Harian.
The event centred various segments including a briefing on mosque tourism, the screening of a corporate mosque tourism video, the presentation of appreciation certificates to strategic partners, and a guided tour around the mosque, which is an icon of Selangor.
The event also provided a platform for people of various backgrounds to learn about the role of a mosque, understand the basics of Islam, and appreciate the mosque’s architecture and history, which is known by its iconic blue dome.
According to Farhan, the event was held in line with the role of mosques as a social institution that is open to everyone no matter their background.
He said that last year, the mosque counted 90,787 international tourists, which is evidence of its huge potential to be centred as a world-class mosque tourism model.
“The figure proves this mosque has its own draw and is capable of becoming a globally competitive Islamic tourism icon,” Farhan said.
According to Malaysia International Tourism Development Association (Mitda) president Mahadzir Mansor, Islamic tourism initiatives could boost the national Islamic tourism ecosystem and uplift Malaysia’s image as a global Islamic tourism destination.
“Mosques play an important role as inclusive heritage, knowledge and preaching centres,” he said.
Mahadzir said strategic cooperation between mosques, government agencies and industry players is important as it could indirectly ensure mosque tourism is implemented sustainably and professionally.
