Langkawi could be made ‘preferred Muslim destination’, says deputy minister

Deputy tourism, arts and culture minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan says Langkawi may struggle to compete with other islands within the region. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy tourism, arts and culture minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan has suggested that Langkawi be made a “preferred Muslim destination” to compete with other islands in the region for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).

Khairul said one way for Malaysia to be competitive with other countries is to focus on niche sectors.

“We know that Langkawi may struggle to compete with other islands within the region.

“Therefore, we are considering positioning Langkawi as a preferred Muslim destination, aiming to make it more family-oriented and (its tourism) focused on spiritual aspects,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was asked by Teresa Kok (PH-Seputeh) on whether the approach taken by certain state governments in imposing policies that are not tourist friendly, such as prohibition against drinking alcohol and wearing shorts, could affect the success of VMY2026.

Khairul said the ministry has engaged with state governments which enforce such rules, but found that “the situation is well and under control”.

There is no need to look into such trivial matters, he said.

“This is why it’s important for each state to play its own role. It is not necessary for every state to take the same approach, as this would negatively impact competitiveness,” he said.

Last September, tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing was reported to have said that tourists had complained about an alleged abuse of authority by certain government officials in Langkawi for harassing them on their dress code and alcohol consumption.

Tiong urged Kedah menteri besar Sanusi Nor to explain the matter as the tourists are not Muslim and thus, buying alcohol and wearing shorts are not prohibited for them.

In response, Sanusi denied Tiong’s allegations and described them as unfounded. He said Tiong should go to Langkawi and “see for himself”.

He also said Tiong can “drink as much as he wants” in Langkawi.

“He should wear short pants in Langkawi and see if anyone will stop him.”