Muslim Friendly Tourism:
Regulating Accommodation Establishments
In the OIC Member Countries
89
Update if necessary
Reassess the standard against feedback from stakeholders. If an update is required, follow a
similar process as that adopted when developing the standard (form a committee of
stakeholders, gather input from a wider group of stakeholders on what needs to be changed,
etc.).
6.2.2 Improving Implementation of Standard
As mentioned in section 6.1, it is vital that MFT regulation is properly implemented and is closely
monitored on an on-going basis. Ensure the following:
 The certification role is held separate from the standard-setting role. In several the
OIC countries, the standard setting body also provides certification which causes a
conflict of interest
 Inspectors and auditors are properly trained in MFT travel services and facilities
 Professionalism of certifying bodies is assured by ensuring they are accredited.
When certification bodies are accredited this ensures that all required
documentation and processes are in place. In many instances, certification bodies
are missing critical documentation such as a scheme document (or standard
operations procedure) for the standard.
 Certifiers should not assume the role of trainers as this results in a conflict of
interest. Each should be a separate role.
6.2.3 Improving Adoption of Standard
Follow steps similar to those mentioned in section 6.1 under campaign for stakeholder buy-
in. Conduct a promotion campaign to encourage adoption of the standard by the
accommodation sector. Issue press releases, hold conferences, schedule industry seminars to
educate the sector, launch awards for MFT certified hotels that provide exceptional service
and MFT facilities and create a buzz around them.
In addition to the promotion campaign, government incentives such as tax breaks can
encourage more accommodation facilities to adopt the standard.
6.3. Recommendations for International Cooperation
In this section, both intra-the OIC and international cooperation strategies in the area of MFT
regulations will be outlined. The following diagram summarizes the recommendations for intra-
the OIC and international cooperation presented in this section.