Jamal Abdun Nashr, Jakarta – Central Java is planning to label Muslim-friendly hotels to bolster the growth of halal tourism, supported by worship facilities, and halal food products, among others.
"The provincial government is projecting hotels to fulfill the basic requirements for the Muslim-friendly tourism," said Deputy Governor Taj Yasin on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
Hotels receiving the Muslim-friendly label must meet several criteria, including not providing non-halal food and drinks, not serving alcoholic beverages, providing facilities for worship, and even separate swimming pools for men and women.
According to Taj Yasin, several areas in the region have been developed as Muslim-friendly tourism spots, such as Tawangmangu in Karanganyar Regency.
"The infrastructure is sufficient, with well-organized souvenir shops, cafes, and Muslim-friendly culinary options," said Taj Yasin.
Other parts of the region set to follow with Muslim-friendly tourism are Semarang, Ungaran, Magelang, and Wonosobo. Taj Yasin hopes that there will be more tourist destinations in Central Java going forward.
Taj Yasin mentioned that many foreign tourists, especially from the Middle East, opt for Muslim-friendly tourism spots. This also goes for pesantren (Islamic boarding school), or other Islamic educational institutions, which often visit Muslim-friendly destinations.