Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu visited a halal-certified restaurant and Muslim-friendly hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui recently as part of the government's push to establish the city as a welcoming destination for Muslim travelers.

Accompanied by Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui and Hong Kong Tourism Board Deputy Executive Director Becky Ip Ching-tak, Lee toured a hotel certified with a five-star "Crescent Rating" - an international Muslim travel accreditation.

Currently, six Hong Kong hotels hold this mid-tier certification in the seven-level system, where the highest rating is typically only achieved in Muslim-majority countries.

The hotel features dedicated prayer rooms, Quran copies, Qibla direction markers, and ablution facilities. Its halal-certified restaurant, approved by the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong, impressed Lee with its authentic Muslim cuisine.

"I spoke with several Muslim guests who expressed satisfaction with the facilities," Lee wrote on social media. "This demonstrates how quality services can encourage repeat visits and recommendations."

The visit preceded Lee's Middle East tour to Qatar and Kuwait starting Saturday, aimed at promoting Hong Kong's advantages to emerging markets.

With Muslim populations representing significant tourism potential, Lee's 2023 Policy Address highlighted plans to enhance halal dining options and prayer facilities.

His address also identified Middle Eastern and ASEAN nations as key growth markets for Hong Kong's tourism sector.

Recent statistics demonstrate tangible progress in this initiative. The number of certified halal restaurants in Hong Kong has grown significantly from 100 in early 2023 to over 170 as of April this year. Additionally, 61 hotels have now received Crescent Rating accreditation, along with five major tourist attractions and convention venues adapting their facilities for Muslim visitors.

(Marco Lam)

John Lee visits halal-certified restaurant, vows to boost Muslim-friendly facilities