Tourism Expert: Use Artificial Intelligence to Support Religious Tourism

Semarang (ANTARA) – Tourism expert Azila Azmi of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia said the management of religious tourism could be improved by making use of artificial intelligence and digital technology.

Speaking at a seminar entitled “Contemporary Trends in Halal and Religious Tourism Management” in Semarang, Central Java, on Tuesday, Azmi said technology should not be used solely for economic transactions and promotion. It could also serve to educate, convey historical information, and communicate religious and cultural values to the wider public.

She identified four roles for technology in developing religious tourism: educating, interpreting, guiding and connecting.

In its educational role, technology can help introduce the history and Islamic cultural heritage to a wider audience, she said. Its interpretive role can help tourists understand the historical significance and spiritual value of religious sites.

Technology can also guide visitors in observing proper etiquette and showing respect for the places they visit. Its role in connecting people, she said, is to bring tourists and local communities together through inclusive and mutually respectful interaction.

Azmi also emphasised the importance of quality assurance and halal certification in building Muslim travellers’ trust.

Clear and reliable information about halal products and services is an important factor in improving the quality of the tourism experience, she said.