Promoting Islam and Malay Values through Mosque Tour Program in Perlis, Between Opportunities and Challenges

Abstrak

Mosque Tour Program that is implemented in renowned mosques worldwide offers tourists not only enriched experiential value but also aligns with Quranic and prophetic imperatives on da’wah and fostering inter-cultural understanding. Despite Perlis’s reputation for iconic mosques, vibrant tourist inflows, proactive tourism promotion, and initiatives to revitalize the Sunnah, the state has yet to systematically implement such a program. This study explores the feasibility of launching a Mosque Tour Program in Perlis by conducting interviews with senior tour guides at four major tourism mosques in Malaysia’s Federal Territory and analyzing the transferability of best practices. Findings indicate that a successful Mosque Tour Program depends on a dedicated team of volunteers who are spiritually, financially, and professionally equipped to navigate both internal and external challenges. Institutional support from religious, tourism, and educational agencies emerges as essential, yet the intrinsic qualities of the mosque such as its appeal to tourists, willingness to provide necessary facilities, and a communicative, welcoming attitude are equally critical for volunteer sustainability and visitor satisfaction. Notably, experienced guides emphasize that no singular model fits all contexts; rather, each mosque should tailor its approach to local circumstances while engaging in mutual learning for continual improvement. This study concludes that al-Hussein Mosque in Kuala Perlis is the most promising site in Perlis to initiate the program, owing to its strategic location, physical attributes, and supportive administration. Future research should examine how agencies can further facilitate, monitor, and sustain such programs; travel companies to promote the site; and universities students to utilize the program to improve language and communication skillactively promote Malay culture within Perlis’s multicultural landscape.