Latest news with #Muslim-friendly
Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Bangkok Post
How Hong Kong is wooing Muslim tourists with halal menus
At Chinesology restaurant in Hong Kong, culinary director Saito Chau creates char siu with Wagyu beef instead of pork, and uses "a secret sauce" to replace the rose cooking wine in the glaze. For him, the dish is not just another modern spin on a classic dish - it represents an opportunity for cultural exchange. When Chau visited Dubai last January, he saw Chinese restaurants catering to a predominantly Muslim clientele who, due to religious dietary laws, were unable to enjoy dishes such as char siu. This is because the dish uses pork, which is non-halal and therefore forbidden. He was moved to create a Muslim-friendly version. "I hope that friends who can't eat pork can enjoy the irresistible sweet-savoury allure of this 'char siu', so that more people around the world can experience this piece of Chinese food culture," he says. Since Chinesology continues to serve pork, the process of setting the kitchen up to offer halal dishes was somewhat complicated. The kitchen had to be deep cleaned and sectioned off to create a dedicated halal cooking area, which needed new refrigerators, kitchen utensils and cleaning supplies. Ingredients, including sauces, are kept separate, and halal dishes are prepared by dedicated chefs. The kitchen team strictly vets all suppliers, working with halal-certified farms and distributors for meat, sauces and even spices, and keeps detailed records to ensure traceability. The team works with multiple suppliers to avoid shortages without compromising on standards. Chinesology now offers 20 halal Chinese dishes, a six-course halal-friendly lunch tasting menu and an eight-course halal-friendly dinner menu. Last November, the establishment became the first high-end Chinese restaurant in Hong Kong to achieve halal-friendly accreditation from the Incorporated Trustees of Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong, joining almost 200 other dining establishments across the city that have been given halal status. The move to expand Hong Kong's halal restaurant options is part of a drive by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to boost the city's appeal to Muslim tourists, especially those from South and Southeast Asia, as well as from the Middle East. In his policy address late last year, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the government would actively encourage various sectors right across the tourism industry to create a friendly environment for all Muslim visitors. During a visit to a Tsim Sha Tsui hotel earlier this month, Lee spoke with an Indonesian tourist, saying, "I have made it a very clear policy that we should make Hong Kong a Muslim-friendly city because we welcome you. We want everybody to come to Hong Kong and feel, first of all, appreciated and respected." HKTB is promoting the city as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination "to capitalise on the vast potential and spending ability of the Muslim consumer segments", says Becky Ip, deputy executive director at HKTB. Halal-certified restaurants must adhere to Islamic dietary laws. The restaurant must only use halal ingredients, and exclude pork, alcohol and other prohibited substances. Meat and poultry must be sourced from animals slaughtered according to specific Islamic rites, and the restaurant's kitchen and preparation areas must be carefully managed to prevent cross-contamination with any non-halal ingredients. For some restaurants across Hong Kong, the accreditation process has been simple. For others, more challenging. Mustafa Temir opened Kimchi Korean Fusion, Hong Kong's first halal-certified Korean restaurant, on Kimberley Road in Tsim Sha Tsui in 2021. As he already ran a halal-friendly Turkish kebab shop, making sure his Korean kitchen met with the standards was straightforward. "We're Muslim, so already know the relevant suppliers in Hong Kong and how to prepare halal food," he says. "Our halal Korean restaurant has given many Muslim people their first taste of Korean food. We've had thanks from Hong Kong people and Singaporeans, Malaysians, Muslim Chinese and tourists from other Muslim countries, too." It was also plain sailing for Prem Bahadur Thapa, owner of Basmati Taste of India on Connaught Road, Sheung Wan, which does not serve any pork dishes. He applied for halal certification to reassure his Muslim guests. "Because Chinese people eat so much pork, Hong Kong and mainland China aren't seen as Muslim friendly," he says. "I wanted to ensure that everyone at my restaurant feels welcome and confident in the authenticity and quality of our ingredients and preparation methods." While Thapa says that accreditation has had no impact on earnings at the restaurant, he will continue to renew it as long as he runs the restaurant. Portuguese gastropub Flaming Frango on Elgin Street, Central, is another establishment that has long been halal friendly, opening a decade ago with halal-certified chicken on the menu. Owner Vinay Kapoor says he received a significant number of queries about his restaurant's food being halal, and that after doing market research, he found there were limited options for halal food in Hong Kong at the time, mainly consisting of Indian restaurants and kebab shops. "That's when we decided to create a halal menu offering more than just flame-grilled peri-peri chicken. We added [halal] fajitas, burgers, pasta and other dishes, and applied for halal certification, which was a fairly simple process," Kapoor explains. While the accreditation has not had a significant impact on revenue, Kapoor hopes this could change. "Hopefully, with the amount of promotion the Hong Kong government is doing to attract Muslim visitors, the numbers may grow," he says. "You can't measure the impact [of these new policies] month by month," says Chaster Tong of Islam Food, which has been serving customers in Kowloon City for 40 years. "But the initiative definitely helps by making Hong Kong's halal dining scene more visible to visitors." "The important thing is that when the government promotes Muslim-friendly dining, it raises awareness," Tong continues. "Before, many visitors didn't realise Hong Kong had proper halal options beyond vegetarian restaurants. Some might even hesitate to try local snacks like egg waffles because they weren't sure about the cooking oil used, as they didn't know if pork oil was used or not. "Halal isn't just about ingredients; it's about clean, wholesome food that's good for both body and faith."
Ya Biladi
4 days ago
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Tourism : Africa attracts Muslim tavelers, France loses ground
France is no longer among the most attractive destinations for Muslim travelers, according to the 2025 edition of the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). Developed by CrescentRating in partnership with Mastercard, this benchmark ranking has assessed the world's most «Muslim-friendly» tourist destinations annually since 2015. The latest report, which now includes 153 countries, shows a notable decline in the appeal of several Western destinations. Countries such as France, Switzerland, Belgium, and even the United States are absent from this year's ranking. Meanwhile, nations like Kenya, New Zealand, and Lebanon are gaining prominence. The Asia-Pacific and African regions continue to rise in popularity. Malaysia, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia remain firmly at the top of the list. In 2024, Muslim tourists took nearly 176 million trips, an increase of over 25% compared to the previous year. By 2030, that number is expected to grow to 245 million, representing a market valued at $230 billion.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Yahoo
Momo Yakitori at TRX serves Muslim-friendly Japanese skewers in a retro train — RM2 bento every weekend
If you're wondering which mall to keep an eye on in KL, The Exchange TRX is definitely one to watch. Exciting food spots are opening there all the time, and one of them is Momo Yakitori, located at Market Lane. Even from the outside, you'll quickly get the theme: a retro Japanese train station. It's a small place, but you can grab one of their mini fans to cool off. Take a seat next to their digital 'window,' which makes it feel like you're riding on a train in Japan. The main star here is yakitori: grilled skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables. While Momo Yakitori isn't halal-certified just yet, all the ingredients they use are, so it's Muslim-friendly. The skewers are cooked using an automated high-tech grill from Malaysia and dipped in authentic yakitori sauce all the way from Nagano, Japan. You can order individual skewers or go for a bento set, where you get to pick 5 skewers with rice. We tried their Speciality Bento (RM25.90), which came with flavoured sushi rice and skewers like Japanese A5 wagyu, chicken with pepper, ladyfingers, and our favourite— golden crab stick. The wagyu was juicy and tender, though a bit rich if you're not big on beef. The rice was sweet, sticky, and perfect with the pickled ginger on the side. We also tried a few extras: Tamago Yaki with Mentaiko (RM7), Chicken Ball with Cheese (RM7), Takoyaki (RM6.50), and Seafood Pancake (RM5.50). The tamago was torched right in front of us and turned out soft and fluffy. But the real winner was the crunchy and juicy Seafood Pancake. Once you're done eating, take a look at their merch corner. They've got cute cat-themed keychains and even blind bags if you like surprises. Oh, and don't forget to grab one of their postcards. You can write a message, stamp it, and drop it in their mailbox. They'll mail it for you anywhere in Malaysia. If you're planning a visit, here's a bonus: every Friday to Sunday this summer, you can get a second bento for just RM2. Grab them while stocks last! DONKAI: Halal-certified Angus & A5 Wagyu Hamburg on sizzling hot plates — overrated hype or splurge-worthy? The post Momo Yakitori at TRX serves Muslim-friendly Japanese skewers in a retro train — RM2 bento every weekend appeared first on
GMA Network
19-06-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
PH rises as Muslim-friendly destination in 2025 global index
This photo taken on June 17, 2020 shows the white beach of Boracay Island, Aklan. Ernesto Cruz/ AFP The Philippines has gained recognition as a welcoming country for Muslim travelers, climbing to 8th place in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 among destination that are not part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The country improved its score to 53 in this year's GMTI, up 7 points compared to its 2024 performance when it ranked 12th. The report, jointly produced by Mastercard and CrescentRating, was released this June and takes note of the country's ongoing efforts to build an inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism sector. The Philippines is among non-OIC destinations that were described as making "strong gains" this year, along with Taiwan, Thailand, Ireland, and Australia. In the non-OIC tier, Singapore vaulted to the top spot with a score of 71, jumping 5 spots compared to last year. The GMTI 2025 report said, "The Philippines is steadily positioning itself as a Muslim-friendly destination by strengthening its capacity to welcome Muslim travelers. Efforts focus on improving accessibility to Halal food and integrating Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites." The report also noted that Philippine tourism authorities have launched initiatives to expand Halal-certified dining and accommodations. Stakeholders, meanwhile, have been educated on Muslim visitors' needs. "With these efforts and the promotion of its diverse culture and natural beauty, the Philippines is emerging as an appealing destination for Muslim travelers in Southeast Asia," the report said. Inclusivity and diversity Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the improved ranking, saying it affirms the government's efforts to promote inclusivity and expand the reach of Philippine tourism. "This recognition for the Philippines by the Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 affirms our steady commitment to introduce the Philippines as a halal and Muslim-friendly destination, as well as transforming our leading and emerging tourist spots to become those that practice inclusivity and diversity regardless of race and faith," Frasco said. "By prioritizing halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, we not only demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity but also open up opportunities to attract more Muslim travelers from around the world, while expanding markets for our tourism stakeholders and creating more livelihood and employment for our fellow Filipinos," she added. CrescentRating CEO Fazal Bahardeen said the "remarkable progress" of the Philippines, alongside Hong Kong and Taiwan, demonstrate a "genuine commitment to building inclusive and welcoming tourism ecosystems." International Muslim tourist arrivals were reported to have reached 176 million in 2024, with forecasts expecting the number to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, global Muslim travel spending is projected to hit $230 billion, underscoring the sector's economic importance. Part of the Department of Tourism's inclusivity strategy under its National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 is the implementation of updated guidelines for the operations and recognition of Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments. The DOT has launched various programs to support Muslim-friendly tourism, including: SALAAM: The Halal Tourism and Trade Expo Marhaba Boracay–the first dedicated Muslim-friendly beach cove in Boracay Island Awareness campaigns and training sessions for tourism stakeholders Increased promotion of Halal-certified restaurants and Muslim-friendly facilities The GMTI report also noted the the expansion of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, which the DOT said became the first hotel group in the Philippines to be fully recognized as 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments across all 13 of its properties. Megaworld's efforts were acknowledged at the Halal in Travel Awards 2025 in Singapore, where it was named "Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain of the Year." The report also highlighted the amenities offered at Megaworld properties, such as Qibla direction markers, prayer rugs upon request, water-friendly restrooms, Halal-certified food offerings, designated prayer spaces, and gender-separated spa areas. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
Mid East Info
19-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index reveals trends shaping the future of Halal travel - Middle East Business News and Information
10th annual report spotlights leading Muslim-friendly destinations worldwide Dubai, UAE; June, 2025 – As awareness of Muslim travelers' needs grows, Halal travel is increasingly shaping how destinations design and deliver experiences. According to the newly released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 – up 25% from 2023 – and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market. To stay competitive, travel and tourism stakeholders must adapt to the evolving needs of Muslim travelers, prioritizing purpose, inclusivity, and digital innovation. The 10th edition of the GMTI identifies the key trends and destination leaders shaping the future of Halal-friendly travel. Key Consumer Trends Impacting Halal Travel: GMTI 2025 highlights five important trends shaping Muslim travel preferences today: Smart Apps for Halal Journeys: Muslim travelers are embracing digital tools that offer seamless access to faith-aligned services and personalized experiences. The Modern Female Muslim Traveler: Women are shaping the Halal travel sector in powerful ways, driving demand for safer, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed spaces. Muslim-friendly facilities: Destinations that offer alcohol-free environments, Halal-certified dining, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated pools and spas are becoming essential. Solo Travel Surge: Younger Muslim travelers are embracing solo adventures, favoring autonomy and personalized itineraries. Digital Detox Retreats: Inspired by Islamic values of mindfulness and balance, many travelers are seeking tech-free escapes rooted in nature and spirituality. Destinations Leading the Way in Muslim-Friendly Travel The GMTI 2025 highlights leading destinations around the world that are setting benchmarks in Muslim-friendly travel. Among OIC destinations, Malaysia retains the top spot, recognized for its accessible Halal-friendly services and infrastructure. Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share the second spot, each offering a strong combination of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and dedicated efforts to enhance the Muslim travel experience. Indonesia also ranks highly, supported by its rich cultural appeal. Other notable destinations in the Gulf region include Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, all of which continue to strengthen their offerings for Muslim travelers. Among non-OIC destinations, Singapore remains the leader – recognized for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. Thailand and the Philippines are steadily emerging as rising Muslim-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. Thailand offers warm hospitality and a growing range of Halal-certified services, while the Philippines is enhancing its capacity to serve Muslim travelers through better Halal food access and Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites. In addition, Hong Kong has emerged as standout non-OIC destination, ranking third in the GMTI 2025. The city has invested significantly in Muslim-friendly infrastructure, with 61 hotels accredited by CrescentRating and 153 restaurants Halal-certified by the Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong. Hong Kong also received the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award, part of the Global Muslim Travel Index Awards. Taiwan has also continuously positioned itself as a Muslim-friendly destination, offering a welcoming environment that respects cultural and religious diversity. Over 230 restaurants and hotels have been Halal-certified by the Chinese Muslim Association, many of which include separate kitchens to meet dietary requirements. With the global Muslim travel market entering a dynamic new growth phase, GMTI 2025 serves as a timely guide for stakeholders looking to tap into this fast-evolving landscape.
