Verify Badal Haji Offers With Authorities To Avoid Scams - Zulkifli

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 (Bernama) -- Muslims have been reminded to verify the legitimacy of badal haji (hajj by proxy) offers with the relevant authorities, particularly Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the government had intensified monitoring, including by forming a special team to oversee operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and monitor social media content for misleading information.

“Our team is looking into this matter and, if there is any confusion, we will immediately provide clarification.

“In addition, students in Saudi Arabia have also issued a statement warning about badal haji (fraud),” he told Bernama when met at Wisma Bernama here today.

On the number of haj pilgrimage operators (PJH), which stood at 31 this year compared with 37 last season, Zulkifli said assessments were carried out continuously to ensure that only qualified companies were allowed to operate.

“In fact, from time to time, we continue to strengthen efforts to ensure that each PJH is truly qualified and meets the requirements as agreed by TH.

“This year, the performance of PJH companies is improving,” he said, adding that although there are many capable companies, only those meeting TH’s standards will be selected.

--BERNAMA