By: Nurdiyanah R.
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, SEPT 20 – As part of its ongoing efforts to position Brunei Darussalam as a major destination for Islamic tourism, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (KSSUP) through the Department of Tourism Development, in collaboration with airlines, travel agents and hotels, is organizing Familiarization Tour for travel agents specializing in Islamic and Muslim tourism.
Accordingly, Brunei has recently welcomed 16 travel agents from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. The visit coincided with the celebration of Maulidur Rasul, allowing the participants to experience for themselves the wealth of Islamic heritage in this country.
A special welcome reception for international travel agents was held, which gave agents the opportunity to meet key local stakeholders in the industry, including representatives from Royal Brunei Airlines, hotels and local tour operators.
During their stay, travel agents engage in a series of activities that showcase Brunei’s Islamic culture. This includes a visit to the mosque and participating in the Dikir Majlis held for 12 consecutive nights to commemorate the birth of the Great Prophet Muhammad SAW.
The agents also took part in the Maulidur Rasul procession in the capital, joining thousands of locals, including the royal family, in a huge celebration.
The tour also featured important Islamic landmarks such as the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Islamic Khazanah Hall (BKISHHB), where participants had the opportunity to visit the Aqidah and Taqwa Exhibition at BKISHHB and engage in activities hands-on at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation School of Islamic Art and Calligraphy (PPKKI-YSHHB).
In addition to their focus on Islamic activities, the agents had the opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage including visits to Ulu Temburong National Park, Kampong Ayer and Lamin Warisan, while enjoying authentic local cuisine.
According to one of the participating agents, BKISHHB is a priceless treasure, providing a deep insight into the depth of Islamic history and culture. The peaceful atmosphere in this country brings peace to the mind and soul.
They are also very impressed with the unity of the people, especially the splendor and joy that is celebrated with Islamic festivals such as Maulidur Rasul. In addition, agents praised the local cuisine and admired the cleanliness of the country.
The tour aims to raise the country’s profile as a leading Islamic tourism destination by offering a comprehensive understanding of the country’s Islamic heritage, cultural experiences and religious landmarks.
Equipped with such insights, agents are in a better position to arrange unique and spiritually enriching tour packages for their clients, further strengthening the country’s appeal to Muslim travelers.
At the same time, the Knowledge Council 2024 is taking place at the International Conference Center (ICC), Berakas. The event serves as an excellent platform to attract the Islamic market, highlighting Brunei Darussalam as a center of spiritual healing and an Islamic hub for knowledge.
Realizing its potential as a tourist attraction, the Tourism Development Department intends to work closely with the Prime Minister’s Department and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to integrate the Council of Knowledge into the tourism program.
