Muslim Friendly Tourism:
Regulating Accommodation Establishments
In the OIC Member Countries
53
management systems), MS2393 (Islamic and Halal Principals), Halal Pharmaceuticals and
Halal Packaging as well as the Malaysian Tourism Industry Act of 1992, the IHI Alliance of
Muslim-Friendly Hospitality Services (first Edition), and the MATTA Code of Ethics and the
MTGC Code of Ethics. 118
Currently, the standard is not certified by any official body, but acts as a guideline for
accommodation providers and tour and travel agents offering Muslim-friendly products.
Currently, over 300 hotels in Malaysia are estimated to be Muslim-friendly.119
4.1.2 Requirements of the Standard
The requirements of the standard for an accommodation are divided into two categories:
general and specific requirements. General requirements involve management and personnel
responsibilities, training, documentation and storage, communication and an MFHS
management system while specific requirements cover the accommodation establishment’s
rooms, food and beverages, public prayer rooms “musalla”, public washrooms, and
recreational and wellness facilities.
A. General Requirements
 Management has to ensure the establishment of the framework, the execution of
all outlined MFHS practices and the commitment to improve MFHS on a
continuous basis.
 Management should appoint a trained Muslim officer to ensure the
implementation of MFHS.
 The Organization should hire competent and educated personnel and offer
training to ensure competence.
 A list of all Muslim-friendly products and services offered should be provided as
well as constantly updated to ensure that Muslim guests are able to make an
informed decision.
B. Specific Requirements
 The rooms of the accommodation should be suitable for Muslim guests by
including the following:
o Qibla direction sign in the room, placed by JAKIM
o Ablution facilities in the bathroom (bidet, hand shower or a water hose)
o Halal personal care products/suitable for Muslims to use
o No alcohol in the mini-bar of the room
o Prayer mat is available or can be requested
o Female Prayer Garment is available or can be requested
118 Interview conducted for the Malaysia case study, Islamic Tourism Centre
119 Interview conducted for the Malaysia case study, Islamic Tourism Centre