KUCHING (Feb 17): A police report has been filed against a Selangor-based travel agency for allegedly failing to fulfill its umrah travel arrangements, leaving its customers with significant financial losses.
The National Consumer Action Council (MTPN) chairman, Wynson Ong Teck Ping, led a group of affected individuals to lodge a report at the Sungai Maong police station, urging authorities to take immediate action.
According to Ong, each complainant suffered losses amounting to tens of thousands of ringgit. He assured that MTPN would continue monitoring the case and cooperate with authorities to ensure a fair resolution.
The complainants had planned to perform their umrah pilgrimage in 2023. However, just two days before their scheduled departure, they traveled to Kuala Lumpur only to be met with a shocking announcement. The travel agency issued a last-minute memo, stating that there was an increase in the floor price for their packages.
Adding to their frustration, the complainants alleged that the agency did not make any necessary preparations, such as booking flight tickets or other essential arrangements. This left them stranded without any means to proceed with their pilgrimage.
Ong strongly advised all consumers to be extra cautious when dealing with travel agencies. He urged the public to conduct thorough checks before making any payments to avoid falling victim to fraudulent service providers.
This case highlights the importance of strict regulations and oversight in the travel industry to protect consumers from financial scams. Authorities are now expected to investigate the claims and take appropriate measures against the responsible parties.
