Chief minister Chow Kon Yeow said this is because Penang is seen as having high potential in the Muslim market among domestic and international tourists, thus making it a destination of choice.

“However, we need to ensure that we have enough facilities, which are shariah-compliant, to meet the increase in Muslim tourists,” he said.

“Food is always an important matter as most tourists come here to eat, and we do not have enough (Muslim-friendly) food outlets.

“Therefore, we need to have more outlets offering a variety of food choices as well as more comfortable facilities so that it will not only help to increase tourist arrivals but also boost the state’s economy.”

Chow said this to reporters after officiating the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents Fair Penang 2024 at the Setia Spice Arena today, reported Bernama.

The fair’s chairman, Carolyn Leong, said it aims to achieve RM35 million in sales through tour packages for both domestic and international destinations. She said several agents specialising in umrah travel are taking part.

She also said 40,000 visitors, especially those from the northern states, are expected to attend the two-day fair.