JAKARTA – The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) is set to make history by organizing the inaugural MATTA Muslim Friendly Travel Fair (MFTF), scheduled for October 18-19, 2025. This groundbreaking event will be held at Kuala Lumpur’s World Trade Centre in Tun Razak Hall 4, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s ambition to become the leading global hub for halal tourism.

A Major Step for Halal Tourism

Spanning 2,700 square meters, the two-day fair will feature 115 exhibition booths showcasing licensed tour operators, travel agencies, and tourism innovators. The timing couldn’t be more strategic, as the worldwide halal tourism industry is projected to reach $255 billion by 2028, fueled by growing demand for travel experiences that align with Islamic values and cultural preferences.

What Visitors Can Expect

The fair will open to the public from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on both days, welcoming Muslim families and anyone interested in culturally respectful, family-friendly travel options. Visitors will find interactive exhibition areas offering special deals on airfare, lodging, and customized travel packages to popular halal destinations such as Istanbul, Dubai, and Malaysian treasures like Terengganu’s coastline and Melaka’s historic landmarks.

A significant focus will be placed on Umrah and Hajj travel packages from reputable agencies, complete with visa assistance and spiritual preparation sessions—particularly valuable for those embarking on their first pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia’s holy sites.

Strategic Partnerships and Sustainability

The event benefits from key partnerships: RHB Bank Berhad as Platinum Sponsor, providing specialized travel financing options; the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) as Strategic Partner, conducting expert seminars on sustainable halal travel practices; and Hwajing Travel & Tours as Official Cruise Liner, showcasing Muslim-friendly cruise experiences throughout Southeast Asia.

Environmental enthusiasts will appreciate dedicated sessions on eco-friendly halal tourism, exploring sustainable adventures in Borneo’s tropical rainforests that combine cultural experiences with environmental conservation.

Addressing Real Traveler Needs

The MFTF tackles practical challenges faced by Muslim travelers, including access to halal-certified dining, prayer facilities (musollas), and gender-appropriate amenities. By incorporating JAKIM certification standards with Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage—including the blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions in halal culinary experiences—the fair establishes Kuala Lumpur as an ideal starting point for wider ASEAN region travel.

Economic Impact and Industry Growth

Industry leaders describe the fair as transformative for inclusive tourism. Halal tourism currently generates approximately RM45 billion (roughly $10.5 billion) for Malaysia’s economy and sustains 500,000 employment positions across the hospitality sector and related industries.

The event also serves as a business-to-business platform, featuring networking opportunities that connect Southeast Asian service providers with Middle Eastern purchasers. This leverages Malaysia’s extensive network of more than 5,000 halal-certified establishments, ranging from wellness centers to recreational facilities, ensuring every aspect of the travel experience—from transportation to shopping—reflects Islamic principles while celebrating local cultural practices.

A New Chapter in Travel

As Malaysia leads the way in this specialized tourism sector, the MATTA Muslim Friendly Travel Fair represents more than just a trade event—it signals a movement toward fair, meaningful travel that respects faith, embraces culture, and strengthens communities. With opening day approaching in under three weeks, this promises to be an unmissable occasion for travelers, industry professionals, and anyone interested in the future of inclusive tourism.

Original Article:

Halal Times. (2025, October 2). Malaysia to Host First MATTA Muslim Friendly Travel Fair in Kuala Lumpur Promoting Halal and Cultural Tourism. Retrieved from https://www.halaltimes.com/thimar-2025-highlights-innovation-and-sustainability-driving-omans-islamic-banking-sector/