TOURISM, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing apologised today for his deputy’s proposal for Langkawi to become a “preferred Muslim destination” for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

He said Malaysia is a multiracial country and no tourist location should cater exclusively to the needs of a single religion.

Tiong said he has had a discussion with his deputy Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan about the proposal.

“Khairul may not have clearly explained the matter.

“I was abroad on duty a few days ago and the deputy minister might not have explained it clearly, which led to a public backlash,” Tiong was quoted as saying in Penang by China Press.

On Monday, Khairul suggested that Langkawi become a “preferred Muslim destination” for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

“We know that Langkawi may struggle to compete with other islands within the region. Therefore, we are considering positioning Langkawi as a preferred Muslim destination, aiming to make it more family-oriented and focused on spiritual aspects,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.

Tiong had also urged Kedah authorities not to impose religion on tourists in Langkawi.

He said he had received complaints from non-Muslim tourists that local authorities in Langkawi were harassing them over their clothing and alcohol consumption.

Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi bin Md Nor denied the claims.  – June 29, 2024.