Formulating policies for halal tourism in Indonesia based on Islamic law

Abstract

This research aims to examine the implementation of Islamic law, the role of ulama’s thoughts and authority, and the appropriateness of government policies on halal tourism in Indonesia. A qualitative method was employed to gather primary data, specifically through a one-day symposium on “Halal Tourism and Hospitality” held by Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy in Semarang, Indonesia. This symposium invited 100 participants from various sectors, including the tourism and hospitality industry, government representatives, community leaders, and politicians. The data underwent content analysis utilising word cloud and narrative analysis for the preliminary and Leximancer and narrative analysis for the panel discussion. The study shows that the implementation of Islamic law in formulating halal tourism policies in Indonesia involves several steps and practices aimed at ensuring compliance with Islamic principles within the tourism industry. Furthermore, the thoughts and authority of ulama play a pivotal role in shaping and influencing policies related to halal tourism. Lastly, the Indonesian government has established policies consistent with Islamic principles, such as regulations on the management and provision of halal food, the development of family-friendly tourist destinations, the promotion of spiritual tourism, the prohibition of practices and services conflicting with sharia, the development of sharia-based ecotourism, and the utilisation of Islamic language and symbols in tourism promotion. The study contributes to identifying gaps and opportunities for further incorporating Islamic principles into tourism policies.