GEORGE TOWN, Nov 18 – A Barisan Nasional (BN) representative proposed that the DAP-led Penang government made compulsory for all hotels in the state to be Muslim-friendly. Shariful Azhar Othman (BN-Bertam) said all the hotels should have facilities such as toilets with piped-water, to facilitate ablution by Muslim guests.
“I am confident that if hotels in Penang are practicing with Muslim-friendly , they will attract more tourists to the state, especially Muslims. This practice is appropriate and does not be a problem for non-Muslims. It must be made compulsory for toilets at hotel lobby and rooms to have toilets with piped water. I also believe that those who is in this hall through difficulties when there is no toilet water pipe,” he said when debating the Supply Bill 2016 in the State Assembly here on Tuesday.
Shariful Azhar also proposed that the state government require every hotel and restaurant in the state to apply for halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to assure food and drinks provided is halal. The Bertam representative’s proposal was supported by Datuk Jahara Hamid (BN-Teluk Air Tawar) who suggested that hotels and restaurant in the state to be ‘Muslim compliance’.
“I think the issue, although many do not want to say, I think this is the desire of all. It is worth us raising this matter. Malaysia is now a popular tourist destination worldwide. It is among the ‘top ten’ places favoured by Muslim tourists. In Japan, there are many ‘Muslim-friendly’ restaurants where providing halal food and utilities required by the Muslims. It is time for the hotel and restaurant in the state to follow in the footsteps of Japan,” he added.
