PETALING JAYA: The public has been advised to conduct extensive research on Umrah package offers that are too good to be true to avoid being a scam victim.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said individuals can look up the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry's (Motac) website on Umrah operators.
This, he said, is for the public to research whether the operators or companies offering Umrah packages have a bad reputation that is reported to Motac.
"If you still fall victim to the scam despite doing research, it is crucial for you to gather evidence such as the company's name to take action.
"Since this (Umrah scam) falls under Motac, you can report your case to the ministry's website under the enforcement and licensing section.
"Next, lodge a police report and after the necessary actions have been taken, the victims can claim for a tribunal," he said after attending the 'Program Pentas Akhir Daie Muda Yadim at Angkatan Koperasi Malaysia Berhad, here.
Na'im added that packages that are offered at RM4,000 to RM4,500 are too good to be true and not equivalent to the facilities provided in the packages.
"If you look at the current situation, considering the cost increase of both Umrah and Haj, it is absurd.
"How much does the flight already cost? In addition to the short (queue) time for pilgrims, lodging and visits to Madinah, it is already too good to be true."
"Therefore, everyone must be smart when dealing with such offers."
Citing a verse from the Quran, Na'im also reminds scammers to repent and stop taking away money that is not rightfully theirs.