BTB, RBA host fam trip to promote Islamic Tourism

THE Brunei Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines is currently hosting a four-night stay, beginning Monday, in the Sultanate for a Malay Consortium comprising media representatives and travel agents from Singapore, in hopes of boosting Islamic tourism in Brunei.

The familiarisation trip (fam trip) is part of Brunei's continuous efforts to promote the country as a unique Islamic destination, and is held in cooperation with Singapore Tourism and Darussalam Holdings, as the appointed agent for Islamic tourism, stated a press release from the board.

"With the growing interest in Islamic Travel and on the recent promotion and marketing in advertisements through the Berita Harian newspaper, sales on Islamic packages have been on the rise. One travel agent has successfully closed 10 sales for Islamic travel up until July 15, 2012," the Brunei Tourism Board (BTB) release stated.

The participants of these Malay Consortium of 10 representatives from travel agents and media representatives to 'The Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures' will get a first-hand understanding of the Islamic places of interest in the country.

"To further enhance their experience; the media group will also have the chance to experience an overnight stay at the Ulu-Ulu Resort in Temburong," BTB said.

This fam trip includes a visit to His Majesty's collection of Islamic Artifacts on display at the Brunei Museum and at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Islamic Exhibition Gallery.

"Tourists, especially those from the region for whom it may be difficult to visit Middle East countries, have a chance to marvel at exquisite and often unique pieces of Islamic art, illuminated and miniature Al-Quran, calligraphy in various styles, weaponry, scientific instruments, and everyday objects from the Muslim world throughout history," the BTB said.

The statement added: "The exhibition also features various priceless Islamic Artifacts and ancient relics from His Majesty's private collection."

Lim Guat Wen, RBA's country manager in Singapore, said in a previous release: "Brunei is the only remaining sovereign Malay Islamic monarchy, and this trip will help the (consultants) guide their customers better when planning a visit there. Brunei is the place to be for Muslims wanting a spiritual retreat away from the hustle and bustle of today's lifestyles."

Some of the representatives on the fam trip are from: EDN Media, Hardi Travel, Halijah Travels, HZ Travels, Raffles Holidays and Berita Harian newspaper.

The Brunei Times