Religious Affairs Minister cautions against unregistered haj operators offering RM15,000-20,000 packages, warns of fraud and stranded pilgrims
SEPANG: Prospective pilgrims have been urged to avoid cheap haj packages offered by unregistered operators not authorised by the Pilgrims Fund Board (Tabung Haji).
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar warned that unlicensed companies often promote unrealistic packages costing only RM15,000 to RM20,000.
“People are easily attracted to low prices, but these offers are usually unreasonable,” he said after closing the Haj, Umrah and Tourism Carnival of the Haj Handlers for the 1447H/2026M season.
He explained that legitimate haj costs significantly exceed these suspiciously low prices.
“Many end up losing their money and stranded because they were lured by the cheap packages,” Mohd Na’im added.
The minister cautioned that fraudulent activities frequently involve promotion of Mujamalah or Furada visas outside Tabung Haji’s jurisdiction.
He noted the Saudi Arabian government will enforce stricter regulations in the upcoming haj season.
Only individuals with valid permits will be allowed to perform the fifth pillar of Islam.
“Malaysians are known for their discipline, and the Saudi Arabian authorities have consistently praised this,” Mohd Na’im stated.
“We must uphold these standards and never violate the regulations.”
The three-day carnival featured 34 licensed Haj Handlers for the 1447H/2026M season.
It provided a platform for prospective pilgrims to obtain accurate information and select legitimate haj packages.
All packages offered complied with Tabung Haji standards and Saudi Arabian regulations. – Bernama
