Kuala terengganu: Terengganu's syariah-compliant tourism strategy has not deterred foreign tourists, as stated by state Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris. He reported a 30 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals this year compared to the previous year's 20 percent.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, tourists from Australia, Italy, and several other European countries are flocking to the state, with resort islands being their primary destinations. Almost 90 percent of these tourists opt for the islands, appreciating Terengganu as a family-friendly destination and respecting local culture, including modest dressing in public areas and on beaches. The main attractions include cleanliness, hospitality from hotel and homestay operators, and the authenticity of the natural environment. Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang have recorded the highest overnight stays, while Pulau Kapas and Pulau Tenggol are preferred for day trips.

Datuk Razali noted that international tourists have given special nicknames to Terengganu's islands: Pulau Perhentian is referred to as the Untouched Paradise, Pulau Tenggol as Black Gem Island, Pulau Kapas as Experienced Island, Pulau Bidong as Heritage Island, and Pulau Lang Tengah as Sand Coral. Besides water sports and recreational activities, foreign tourists are interested in learning the Terengganu dialect and trying traditional foods such as rice with budu, which adds a unique experience to their visit.

Furthermore, Razali mentioned that during the recent school holidays, as many as 60,000 vehicles were recorded entering the state daily via the East Coast Highway 2, highlighting Terengganu's appeal as a top destination for domestic visitors.