Malaysia's Zulkifli Hasan warns against Hajj and Umrah package scams

Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), has urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent Hajj and Umrah packages. Speaking at the closing of the 5th Hajj, Umrah, and Tourism Carnival (KHUP5), he highlighted the rise of suspicious offers, including questionable 'badal haji' (proxy Hajj) services that are either priced impossibly low or excessively high.

For pilgrims traveling with 'furada' or 'mujamalah' visas, Zulkifli recommended utilizing the services of the 34 Hajj Pilgrims Management Companies (PJH) licensed by Lembaga Tabung Haji. This recommendation aims to ensure the welfare, safety, and smooth management of pilgrims while in the Holy Land. He also noted that performing Hajj without a valid permit or visa is considered sinful under Sharia law, even if the worship itself is deemed valid.

The KHUP5 carnival, organized by Lembaga Tabung Haji and the Bumiputera Malaysia Tourism Operators Association (BUMITRA), attracted over 16,000 visitors.