KUCHING: As interest in religious tourism continues to rise, the Professional Mutawwif Development International University College (PMDIUC) is addressing the growing demand by offering a specialised diploma programme in Mutawwif management.
The programme is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to become professional Mutawwif (guides who lead Umrah and Ziarah pilgrimages) through structured academic training and practical field exposure.
According to PMDIUC Borneo student recruitment officer Sharifah Suriatie Wan Muhammad, the course is open to students from across Malaysia and abroad.
“What makes this programme truly unique is the final compulsory workshop in Mecca and Medina, where students gain hands-on experience in leading Umrah groups,” she told Sarawak Tribune.
Running for two years and four months, the diploma integrates religious understanding with travel and group management skills, offering students a comprehensive learning experience.
To accommodate working adults, PMDIUC offers long-distance learning (PJJ) and Prior Experience Accreditation (PPT).
These options cater to individuals already working in the field who wish to formalise their experience through certification.
“This boosts their confidence and positions them as qualified professionals,” Sharifah Suriatie said.
She also further mentioned that the diploma is recognised by the Malaysian Department of Skills Development (JPK).
In Sarawak, students can attend classes through UITM 2 Samarahan and SIDMA College Kuching.
Study centres are also available across Peninsular Malaysia including UKM, UTHM, UITM Alor Gajah, and UITM Pulau Pinang.
To date, over 6,600 students have actively applied in the programme, based on data from its human resources database.
Graduates of the programme can look forward to careers in travel agencies, religious tourism services, and even academia.
“Many of our alumni secure jobs even before they graduate as tour guides, Mutawwif professionals, or lecturers,” their confidence and positions them as qualified professionals,” Sharifah Suriatie added.
She stressed that success in the field requires a blend of spiritual knowledge and practical management skills.
“The course delivers from A to Z, namely theory, real-world training, and actual group leadership during umrah,” she said.
PMDIUC’s next intake begins in July, with registration open through SIDMA College Kuching.
The programme is open to SPM leavers, tahfiz graduates, and even PT3 holders, depending on eligibility determined through an interview.
She expressed hope that more youths would take this opportunity to serve in a meaningful and professional capacity.
“With the right training and certification, they can play an important role in guiding pilgrims and providing support throughout their spiritual journey,” Sharifah Suriatie said.
Throughout the month of June, PMDIUC is also opening a promotional booth at Metrocity Mall for those who wish to learn more or register in person.
Those interested in enrolling online can go to the following link: https://pmdic.edu.my/intake/hq/PMD070/ or visit their Facebook page (Profesional Mutawwif Development Holdings) for further information.
