To encourage exchanges and strengthen ties between the Muslim communities in both Malaysia and China, the government is working to maximize flight connectivity between the two countries through improved direct, transit, and chartered flights.

Following discussions with several airlines, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture is anticipated to begin operations in March with a round-trip flight from Xi'an to Kuala Lumpur and, at the latest, a chartered flight from Urumqi to Kuala Lumpur in May or July of this year, according to Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

"China has consistently been one of Malaysia's main tourist source markets, and the ministry is working hard to increase the chances for our tourism sector here. Being one of the first travel locations that welcome Muslims, we are also aware of the enormous potential of the unexplored Muslim market in China.

Speaking yesterday at the Imam Fam Trip: Discover Muslim-Friendly Malaysia welcome dinner reception, he stated, "Malaysia is honored to have earned a reputation as a Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality ecosystem brand and has been ranked first in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 for the eighth consecutive time."

This endeavor is in addition to Malaysia's recently announced efforts to liberalize visa requirements to make admission easier for foreign visitors, especially Chinese tourists.

According to Tiong, the ministry is dedicated to establishing an "Umrah Hub" in Malaysia.

"In due course, Muslim brothers and sisters from Southeast Asia and other regions, not just China, will also have the chance to experience Malaysia's natural beauty and blend of traditional and contemporary attractions before or following their umrah," the speaker stated.

According to Tiong, the date of the Imam Fam Trip is ideal because 2024 also happens to be the 50th anniversary of China and Malaysia's diplomatic ties.

"This trip's schedule reflects the five long decades of cultural exchange and understanding that are being celebrated. The imams will get the chance to fully experience Malaysian Muslim culture, cuisine, and way of life.

"I am optimistic that the work being done by the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA) and the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) will mark the start of increased industry cooperation.

"The players in our industry possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to delve deeper into the vast and expanding Muslim tourism market," the speaker stated.

The minister also believes that the ministry will be able to draw 1.5 million Muslim visitors from China this year with the help of this platform.