Hello, halal!

DOT considers duplicating Malaysia’s halal-friendly food tourism

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is eyeing to duplicate the tourism strategy of Malaysia through the Halal programs, which have bolstered Malaysia’s economy, especially in the food tourism industry.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco met Nancy Shukri, Malaysia’s minister of tourism, arts, and culture (MOTAC) during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation – Tourism Ministerial Meeting (APEC-TMM) in Bangkok, Thailand to explore possible continuing collaboration and partnership initiatives between The Philippines and Malaysia.

The Philippines and Malaysia have a lot in common in terms of culture, values, and family orientation, according to Frasco. “We have every intention to continue this partnership between the Philippines and Malaysia. Both our countries have a shared heritage, values, value for family community, and culture,” she said. “We view these as one of the core strengths of Malaysia. We anticipate that as we continue our partnership, the exchange of best practices on culture and heritage will be some of the key points of our agreement.”

DOT also expressed admiration for Malaysia’s success in promoting halal-certified food, which attracts local and foreign food enthusiasts, including the Filipinos, particularly from Mindanao. As a result, halal has become popular in Asia, even in non-Muslim countries.

Halal is an Arabic word that means permissible or lawful. In reference to food, it means clean and good for the health.

‘We intend to learn from your country on the very successful halal programs. A large part of the population in Mindanao is very interested in halal tourism.’

“We have every reason to visit each other’s country. We intend to learn from your country on the very successful halal programs. A large part of the population in Mindanao is very interested in halal tourism,” said Frasco, addressing the MOTAC.

According to DOT, among the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) members, Malaysia is the Philippines’ second top visitor, with 17,797 Malaysian travelers visiting the country from February to Aug. 14 this year. (Jun Marcos Tadios)