ISLAMIC TOURISM CAN DISPEL `ISLAMOPHOBIA` AMONG NATIONS: JAMIL

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Islamic tourism and travel is one of
the best ways to create and provide a better understanding of Islam amongst
humanity, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Jamil Khir Baharom said
Thursday.

He said it would help dispel the existence of negative perceptions of
Islam among some nations, following the unfortunate Sept 11, 2001
incident, which led to a stereotype that Muslim travellers were potential
terrorists.

"But this is a misconception as Islam does not promote violence. On the
contrary, it is a peaceful and tolerant religion," he said at the opening of the
International Islamic Tourism Conference and Travel Mart here.

Jamil Khir's speech was read by his deputy, Dr Mashitah Ibrahim. Also
present were Deputy Tourism Minister Dr James Dawos Mamit and Islamic
Tourism Centre director-general Zainuddin Abdul Wahab.

The online Wikipedia defines Islamophobia as "an irrational fear or
prejudice towards Islam and Muslims".

Jamil Khir said, as a result of the surge in Islamophobia in some of the
Western nations, it led to a distinct trend towards an increased outbound
inter-regional travel to Islamic or halal-friendly countries from the Middle
East region, apart from increased intra-regional travel.

On the conference, the minister said it was the first time Malaysia was
organising it, adding that it was attended by 11 countries.

He said the conference would dispel negative perception of Islam and build a
bridge to greater cultural understanding leading to closer ties amongst Muslim
and non-Muslim nations.
-- BERNAMA