KUALA LUMPUR: The government is committed to improving connections between China and Malaysia, with the goal of cementing Malaysia's reputation as a Muslim-friendly tourism destination.
Tourism, Arts, and Culture (Motac) Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said that these efforts would include initiatives such as direct flights, transit options, and special bookings.
He emphasised that continuous negotiations with several airlines were expected in the run-up to the March inauguration of direct flights between Xi'an and Kuala Lumpur.
Additionally, plans are underway for a chartered flight from Urumqi to Kuala Lumpur in May or July.
"China has consistently been a crucial tourism source market for Malaysia, and at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, we are dedicated to expanding opportunities for our tourism industry.
"Recognising the vast potential of the untapped Muslim market in China, we aim to deepen the interaction between the Muslim communities in Malaysia and China.
"Malaysia also takes pride in its reputation as a Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality ecosystem, securing the top spot in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 for the eighth consecutive time," he said in a statement.
Tiong highlighted that these efforts followed the recently-announced Malaysia visa liberalisation plan and were part of a broader tourism recovery initiative, supported by a dedicated budget allocation of RM350 million in 2024.
The ministry is also devoted to establishing Malaysia as a regional "Umrah Hub".
"In line with our commitment to strengthening Malaysia's Muslim-friendly ecosystem, the Ministry is working towards establishing Malaysia as a regional 'Umrah Hub'.
"This initiative will provide Muslim travellers, including those from China, with the opportunity to explore Malaysia's diverse attractions before or after performing their umrah."
He expressed confidence that the Imam Fam Trip, commencing this year, was timely, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia in 2024.
"The current Familiarisation Trip (Fam Trip) for the 36 imams is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia in 2024.
"This milestone is celebrated through a carefully curated itinerary, offering the imams a chance to immerse themselves in the culture, food, and lifestyle of Malaysian Muslims," he said.