Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika expressed disagreement to the idea of developing Shariah tourism on the island, citing fears that it could create potential problems.
“I did not agree with it. It will only create problems. Just leave it as it is for now. It has all been going well so far,” he stated after attending a plenary meeting of the regional legislative assembly here on Tuesday.
He pointed out that tourism in Bali has flourished so far.
“Let us not think of strange ideas. It will only create problems. The people have lived peacefully under current conditions so far,” he emphasized.
Chairman of the Shariah Economic Community (MES) Muliaman D. Hadad stated recently after inducting the MES Bali chapter that Bali is the right destination for developing Shariah tourism.
“Bali is fit (for Shariah tourism). So, why not (develop it here). Seven million domestic tourists come to Bali in addition to three million foreign tourists. So, perhaps, there are businessmen here who wish to introduce it in cooperation with the regional government,” he affirmed.
He said that Islam-based tourism has not only been developed in Arab countries but has also been promoted in Asian countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
He pointed out that Thailand had recently won the title of the worlds best Islamic health service tourist destination at an event held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
“This is indeed a business opportunity that needs to be tapped. In several cities, Islamic hotels and health service centers have already mushroomed. We have no other intention than to tap the business opportunity. We are talking about religion but also to boost the economy,” he remarked.
Hadad, who is also chairman of the countrys Financial Service Authority (OJK), said the Shariah economy adopts approaches based on the concept of common welfare, so that it could be used by anyone, regardless of their religious background.