KUALA LUMPUR, November 4 – The Malaysian government is studying new guidelines to improve the implementation of badal haji services, or Hajj performed on behalf of another person.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli said the study is being conducted through the Department of Wakaf, Zakat and Hajj (JAWHAR).
The review will examine whether badal haji services offered by companies and individuals can be carried out properly.
The study also follows a decision by the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs.
New guidelines to protect the public
Marhamah said the proposed guidelines will be presented to the council after the study is completed.
Once approved, they will be made available as a public reference.
The guidelines are expected to provide clearer guidance on how badal haji services should be managed and delivered.
The matter was raised by Abdul Latiff Abdul Rahman (PN-Kuala Krai) during the Dewan Rakyat question-and-answer session on Wednesday.
He asked how the government checks service providers before advertisements are allowed to reach the public.
His questions included checks on advertisers’ identities, company registration, licences and payment recipient accounts.
He also sought clarification on how authorities verify claims that badal haji services have actually been performed.
Tabung Haji and JAWHAR to increase public awareness
Marhamah said JAWHAR and Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) would continue strengthening public awareness efforts.
These initiatives include religious talks at mosques and surau, social media campaigns and nationwide roadshows.
The programmes aim to help Muslims understand how badal haji services operate and identify potentially misleading offers.
Public urged to verify service providers
Marhamah advised Muslims to check service providers carefully before making payments.
They should verify the provider’s background, confirm that the offer is genuine and check the identity of the person or company receiving the payment.
She also said complaints involving misleading advertisements or suspected fraud could be referred to the relevant authorities for investigation under existing laws.
The government takes seriously any attempt to exploit religious obligations for financial gain, she added.
Marhamah said stronger guidelines, public education and cooperation between authorities would remain important in protecting Muslims from badal haji-related scams.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
