Malaysia eyes Türkiye model to expand Muslim-friendly, transit tourism

Dhaka: Malaysia is exploring tourism cooperation with Türkiye, including ways to develop faith-based travel, preserve heritage sites and turn airport transit passengers into visitors.

Mohammad Faisal bin Abu Suaib Khan, director-general of Malaysia’s Islamic Tourism Center, said Türkiye’s approach to managing historic attractions could offer useful lessons for Malaysia. He pointed to the country’s ability to generate tourism income from heritage sites while funding their conservation and upkeep.

Faisal also highlighted Turkish Airlines’ transit-tour program, which he experienced during a long layover in Istanbul. The experience included a city tour, a Bosphorus cruise and a meal before passengers returned to the airport.

He said Malaysia could consider a similar program for travelers with extended connections at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

The cooperation could also work in the opposite direction, with Malaysia offering Türkiye expertise in Muslim-friendly tourism standards. Its Islamic Tourism Center operates a recognition system for businesses that meet requirements for Muslim travelers. More than 500 Malaysian tourism businesses and services are registered under the framework.

Malaysia recorded 9.7 million Muslim visitors in 2025 and aims to reach 15.2 million by 2030.

Faisal said Türkiye and Malaysia could promote combined itineraries instead of competing for the same travelers, allowing tourists to experience both destinations as part of broader international journeys.