Islamic lifestyle roundup: AirAsia promotes Philippines as halal-friendly destination
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during the month of August
Editor's note: Philippines is going beyond traditional measures and is roping in partners across the aviation industry to promote itself as a halal-friendly destination. It is also pushing enterprises and businesses to develop halal products as a complementary move to attract more tourists.
Trade Developments
Philippines
DTI targets 'halal-friendly Bicol' to boost tourism, businesses
The Department of Trade and Industry in Bicol (DTI-5) is pushing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to develop halal products to attract more tourists, especially from Muslim countries.
During the launch of the 'halal-friendly Bicol region' initiative, DTI-5 announced plans to train 20 MSME owners across six provinces to promote the halal industry, aiming to boost opportunities in the region. (PNA Gov)
UAE
UAE introduces first ever Holy Quran TV channel
Sharjah authorities have launched the UAE's first-ever Holy Quran TV channel to promote Islamic teachings and culture, aiming to boost Halal tourism.
Inaugurated on August 16 under the slogan "Be with Allah and you will see Allah with you," the 24/7 channel was established following the guidance of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. (Travel and Tour World)
Company News
Philippines
AirAsia Philippines partners with Universal Islamic Center to position country as halal-friendly destination
AirAsia Philippines is reinforcing the country's position as a halal-friendly destination through its partnership with the Universal Islamic Center and the Philippine Halal Trade & Tourism.
The airline offers halal-certified meals on all flights and is further promoting halal cuisine by hosting the Halal Culinary Cup in Davao during the Kadayawan Festival. (AirAsia)
Thailand / Malaysia
Malaysian tourism platform partners with Thailand to boost ASEAN halal tourism
HalalHolidays.asia, Malaysia's Muslim-friendly tourism platform, has partnered with the Thai Muslim Trade Association (TMTA) to promote premium destinations in Thailand and across Asia.
The collaboration, announced on August 16 at a TMTA Networking Dinner Talk in Bangkok, aims to address the challenges faced by Muslim travelers and enhance tourism offerings in the region. (The Nation)
UAE
AlHuda Centre of Modest Fashion launches online program in modest fashion
AlHuda Centre of Modest Fashion (CMF) has launched its Executive Diploma in Modest Fashion, a distance learning program designed to support the rapidly growing global modest fashion industry.
The modest fashion market, estimated at over $283 billion and projected to reach $311 billion by 2024, is driven by a rising Muslim population and increasing appreciation for faith-aligned fashion. (Zawya)
Operational Development
Saudi Arabia
Madinah forum to benefit 50 million people in 20 languages
Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, president of religious affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, initiated a project to translate the second Fatwa Symposium into 20 languages.
The forum, set to take place at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, aims to communicate its message to Muslims globally, with an anticipated reach of 50 million people. (Arab News)