KOTA KINABALU: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is working closely with relevant agencies to tackle the rise of online travel scams, particularly those involving fake travel promotions.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said the spread of such scams has become a growing concern, especially as more Malaysians rely on online platforms to make travel bookings.
“We are aware that online scammers are spreading, especially through fake travel promotions. That is why the ministry, in collaboration with the Communications Ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), is working on strategies to curb these scams,” he said.
Khairul Firdaus noted that while it is not easy to eliminate scams entirely, the ministry believes that user education is a crucial step in preventing people from falling victim.
“Education is key, especially for users. Still, we cannot blame users 100%, which is why the ministry has partnered with several agencies to address the issue,” he told reporters after launching the N26 Moyog Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) annual conference.
Also present was Moyog Gagasan Rakyat division head Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun, who is also the political secretary to Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. and the division advisor, Datuk John Ambrose.
Khairul Firdaus said that his ministry has an operational office that actively follows up on complaints involving travel-related fraud.
“If companies are reported, we will provide the necessary details and clarifications. We are committed to ensuring that consumers are protected and given the correct information,” he said.
He also reminded travellers to remain vigilant when dealing with online travel offers and to verify the authenticity of agencies and promotions through official channels.
“This is about maintaining public trust in the tourism industry and ensuring people feel safe when making travel plans,” he said.
