KUCHING: Malaysians who wish to perform the hajj are advised to be aware of fraudulent offers made by travel agency that claim they can issue hajj visas.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Naim Mokhtar said that only two authorities in Malaysia can issue valid hajj visas namely – Tabung Haji (TH) and the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
“There are only two authorities that can issue hajj visas, Tabung Haji issues 31,600 visas and the ‘mujamalah’ (special consideration) visa issued by the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
“So, other non-governmental organisations (NGO) cannot issue hajj visas.
“Therefore, I request Malaysians not to be deceived by any agency that says they can issue hajj visas. We do not want any party who intends to perform hajj to be cheated by irresponsible travel agencies,” he told reporters after attending a ceremony to send off the pilgrims at Raia Hotel here on Thursday (May 30).
Adding on, Mohd Naim said Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry will impose heavy fines on pilgrims who do not have a hajj visa.
“If caught, they will be fined 10,000 riyals (RM12,655) and will not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia for 10 years.
“I really hope that Malaysians comply with the rules and ensure discipline,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohd Naim mentioned that his Ministry hasn’t received official complaints about Malaysians being stranded in the Holy Land due to travel agency fraud.
Therefore, he requested that anyone experiencing problems should make a complaint to Tabung Haji officials in Makkah or Madinah for immediate action.
“If they make complaints to Tabung Haji officials there (Makkah or Madinah), we will be ready to extend help to them over there,” he reiterated.
