ISLAMIC TOURISM
BY CLEMENT ERIK WONG and ALVERDTEKOSTER ANYAP
KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak has introduced the Diploma in Mutawwif Professional and Muslim Tour Leader Study Programme — the first of its kind in the nation — as part of its course offerings.
According to Tourism, Arts, Culture and Youth Minister, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the module focuses on the quality and needs of the Umrah industry and Islamic tourism in Malaysia.
He believed with strong preparations, the programme would produce professional Mutawwifs who could guide pilgrims and tourists around the world based on Islamic tourism guidelines.
“We hope one day, graduates of this programme will be approached by many tourism agencies not only in Malaysia but from all over the world,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UiTM Sarawak and Professional Mutawwif Development Sdn Bhd at Tun Abdul Razak Kampus Samarahan 2 Library here yesterday.
For the record, a Mutawwif is a knowledgeable person who can guide pilgrims during the Haj.
Abdul Karim added that the module of the programme was also based on recognized occupational standards with emphasis on practical components and exposure to internal industrial training.
The MoU was inked by UiTM Sarawak Rector, Prof Datuk Dr Jamil Hamali and Mutawwif Development Sdn Bhd’s professional managing director, Abd Halim Ikhsan in an effort to implement the Mutawwif Professional and Muslim Tour Leader Study Programme as one of the TVET programmes at UITM Sarawak.
The ceremony was witnessed by Abdul Karim.
UiTM Sarawak has been selected to provide complete infrastructure and facilities to prospective students such as lecture rooms, libraries and dormitories.
Among those present at the signing ceremony were Department of Skills and Development (JPK) assistant director, Rosyuhadah Tahir and Sarawak Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad (Angkasa) communication committee deputy chairman, Majeri Li.
