Investigation Into Travel Agency That Failed To Fly Umrah Pilgrims Ongoing - MOTAC

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) has announced that an investigation into a licensed travel agency that allegedly failed to fly a group of umrah pilgrims yesterday is ongoing.

MOTAC said that the agency has been advised to honour the bookings of existing pilgrims who have made full payments and ensure their flights are carried out according to the agreed schedule.

The agency has also been advised to refund the money to pilgrims who have requested to cancel their umrah packages.

"At present, the agency has been advised not to accept new umrah bookings until all existing bookings are resolved," it said in a statement today.

MOTAC has also advised any affected pilgrims to file a police report at the nearest police station, submit an official complaint to MOTAC through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) at the link https://motac.spab.qov.my to assist with the investigation, and make claims at the Malaysian Consumer Claims Tribunal.

According to the statement, stern action will also be taken against those found to have committed any violation under the Tourism Industry Act 1992.

MOTAC urges all travel companies involved in the umrah industry to be honest and transparent in conducting their business, particularly regarding umrah packages.

The statement added that issues such as failure to fly pilgrims according to the original plan and failure to refund money when changes occur will have repercussions and affect the industry.

"This will not only tarnish the image of the industry but also lead to a loss of confidence among pilgrims in choosing licensed local travel agencies for their umrah trips," according to the statement.

-- BERNAMA