The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) capitalized on the opportunity when the 10th Belt and Road Summit was held in the city to promote Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives, treating participants from Muslim nations to a feast featuring high-end halal-certified Cantonese delicacies.
The Muslim guests were hosted for a dinner at Chinesology, the first premium halal-certified Chinese restaurant in Hong Kong, last Thursday (Sep 11).
HKTB representatives provided insights into the recent advancements in Muslim-friendly tourism offerings in the city, including the number of halal-certified restaurants rising to 195, alongside the Board's ongoing efforts to enhance Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
Among the notable attendees was Datuk Dr Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman, the president of Malaysia Rail Industry Corporation, who experienced halal-certified Cantonese cuisine for the first time.
Datuk Dr Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman, the president of Malaysia Rail Industry Corporation. (HKTB)
He lauded the exquisite flavors of Cantonese dishes and noted that the growing number of halal-certified and Muslim-friendly hotel options in Hong Kong significantly benefits Muslim business travelers.
He expressed interest in local halal dining options and specific curry dishes recommended by acquaintances.
Aminuddin Bin Zulkipli, the chairman of The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority, emphasized that Muslim travelers will be much happier if they know that a destination offers them halal food.
Aminuddin Bin Zulkipli, the chairman of The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority. (HKTB)
He expressed a strong desire to revisit the city after tasting the halal food in the city, and commended Hong Kong for its proactive steps towards enhancing its Muslim-friendly tourism offerings.
In addition to enjoying local culinary specialties, the guests participated in the "Happy Wednesday" night at Happy Valley Racecourse, engaging in the exhilarating experience of horseracing, and enjoyed a scenic boat ride on a traditional junk along Victoria Harbour.
Some guests extended their stay after the two-day Summit to explore additional attractions in Hong Kong, including a visit to The Peak and the numerous historical exhibits at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
Moreover, HKTB has collaborated with eight hotels recognized for their halal-friendly ratings by CrescentRating to provide special accommodations and promotional offers for Belt and Road Summit participants during and following the event.
