Umrah not allowed yet, MOTAC probes dubious ads

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is probing dubious advertisements on umrah packages as this pilgrimage is yet to be allowed for Malaysians since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.

MOTAC in a statement today said licensed umrah operators were prohibited from taking payments for umrah packages for 1442 Hijri and advised the public to be wary of offers made via dubious advertisements.

"Currently, the ministry still holds on to the policy of implementing the Recovery Movement Control Order which prohibits overseas travel for non-essential activities, especially tourism. In this regard, umrah pilgrimage which comes under the Tourism Industry Act 1992 is also not allowed.

"Until this government policy is changed, any activity involving umrah is still prohibited," the statement said.

Meanwhile, the government through the Foreign Ministry has discussed with the Saudi Arabian government on efforts to revive the economy of both countries following the COVID-19 pandemic, including umrah pilgrimage involving Malaysians if it is allowed before the vaccine is available.

In September, Saudi Arabia announced that it would start receiving pilgrims for umrah in stages while taking the necessary precautions, after suspending the umrah visa in February due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

-- BERNAMA