THE Pakatan Harapan (PH)-led government is facing backlash over Tourism, Arts, and Culture deputy minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan’s proposal to offer Langkawi as a Muslim-friendly hotspot.
Criticism is flowing from PH leader and former finance minister Lim Guan Eng to the Kedah Menteri Besar also known as PAS’ most vocal leader Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Meanwhile, local trade stakeholders are also expressing concerns that rebranding Langkawi Island as a Muslim destination might be counterproductive.
Sanusi said Langkawi does not need such an approach as the island has its uniqueness that can attract tourists from various backgrounds.
“Langkawi is part of Kedah, and we call it the Jewel of Kedah. We have never said we wanted to make Langkawi a preferred Muslim tourism island. Any tourist is welcome to visit.”
Meanwhile, Lim has also urged Khairul Firdaus to retract his statement suggesting Langkawi be made a “preferred Muslim destination” to compete with other islands in the region for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).
He said the deputy minister’s suggestion has raised concerns among those in the travel industry who have invested in the island as an international resort.
“For this reason, it is necessary for Khairul Firdaus to revise and backtrack on his announcement to restore confidence in the Langkawi travel industry.
“Limiting Langkawi to niche sectors, such as the Muslim market, would be counterproductive by depriving itself of the non-Muslim tourism market,” he said in a statement today.
On the other hand, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Nigel Wong emphasised that Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark, is already popular for sun, beach, and ecotourism among European, Indian, and Chinese tourists.
Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners executive director Shaharuddin M Saaid questioned the need for such rebranding, noting Malaysia’s existing recognition as a Muslim-friendly destination. – June 29, 2024
