KUCHING: The Sarawak Umrah and Islamic Travel Expo Festival 2025 (SUITEX25) drew thousands of visitors within the first two days of its launch.
Organised by the Sarawak Umrah and Hajj Association (SUHA) with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, it was officially launched on Feb 22.
“I would like to extend my highest appreciation to SUHA for organising this event, which not only benefits Muslims in Sarawak but also helps strengthen the Islamic tourism industry in the state.” said Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi who represented the Premier at its launching.
“Efforts like this are essential to ensure that Sarawakians have access to legitimate, high-quality Umrah and Hajj services that adhere to established guidelines,” Junaidi said, emphasising the importance of strengthening the Umrah and Hajj industry in Sarawak through events such as SUITEX25.
In this context he said Sarawak has great potential to become a hub for the Umrah industry.
SUITEX25 showcases a variety of Islamic travel agencies and Umrah and Hajj service providers while offering educational programmes such as forums and religious talks by scholars and professionals.
Among the highlights of the event is the Haji Cilik programme, designed to educate children about the pilgrimage.
The festival also integrates community initiatives such as health screenings, a blood donation drive, and a children’s coloring competition.
Additionally, SUITEX25 has launched Buku Umrah SUHA, a comprehensive guidebook for Umrah pilgrims.
SUHA chairman, Ruzaiman Ghazalee,stated that SUITEX25 serves as a platform to establish SUHA as a state-recognised and registered body in the Umrah and Hajj industry while also promoting licensed Umrah and Hajj agencies in Sarawak.
“This expo can also raise awareness among Muslims in Sarawak about the importance of choosing a legitimate and accredited Umrah agency,” said Ruzaiman.
Support from the Muslim community is essential to addressing and minimising the negative issues often affecting the Umrah industry.
“At SUITEX25, we bring together industry players, professionals, and relevant government bodies from both local and international levels to share knowledge and experiences for the benefit and smooth operation of the industry,” he said.
