Kuala lumpur: Mosques should be part of the country's tourism ecosystem while continuing to serve as places of worship, centres of da'wah (preaching), and institutions that bring communities closer to Islam, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He emphasized the importance of integrating mosques into the tourism industry, allowing tourists to explore Malaysia's history, culture, and Islamic civilization.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that tourists should leave not only with images of the beautiful mosques but also with experiences of Malaysian hospitality and Islamic values. He underscored the significance of initiatives like the National Mosque Open Day (NMOD) in achieving this vision. Ahmad Zahid was speaking at the NMOD 2026 event, urging more mosques nationwide to host similar programs, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation among people of various backgrounds.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Bagan Datuk Member of Parliament, noted that opening mosque doors to outsiders offers a chance to learn about Islam, bridging perception gaps. He stressed that through warm and interactive engagements, mosques can showcase Islam's true essence-compassion, wisdom, and benevolence.

He also expressed gratitude for Masjid Tuminah Hamidi's recognition as the country's 98th Tourism Mosque by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC). Completed in 2023 as a waqf for his parents, the mosque's unique architectural design and gallery make it a centre for Islamic knowledge.

Meanwhile, ITC Director-General Mohammad Faisal Abu Suaib Khan remarked that Malaysia has 6,851 mosques, with hopes to increase the number of Tourism Mosques. He mentioned collaboration with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and state Islamic religious departments to develop guidelines for mosque participation.

He added that ITC initiatives like Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) and Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides (MFTG) support the ecosystem, promoting a 'Muslim-Friendly, not Muslim-Only' approach. Organised by ITC, NMOD 2026 took place from August 13 to 15 at Masjid Tuminah Hamidi and Dataran Bagan Datuk, featuring a range of spiritual, community, cultural, recreational, and family-oriented activities.