KUALA TERENGGANU, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Claims related to umrah and hajj packages were the most prevalent at the Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia (TTPM) in Terengganu, from January to October 20 this year, totalling RM1.11 million in claimed value.
Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Terengganu branch director Saharuddin Mohd Kia said that 60 claims in this category were received, predominantly from individuals who fell victim to offers of excessively low package prices.
“When packages were advertised at such low prices, along with unreasonable terms, it often led many consumers to become victims. We have encountered cases where customers have paid for these packages, yet the providers failed to fulfil their obligations,” he said at a press conference at the state KPDN headquarters, today.
He said in addition to the claims for umrah and hajj packages, there were also 14 cases related to jewellery purchases, amounting to RM130,773.52, and 12 cases concerning house construction, worth RM415,094.05.
Overall, Saharuddin noted that the Terengganu TTPM recorded a total of 157 consumer claims filed during the same period, covering 34 different classifications, with the total claims amounting to RM2.04 million.
He noted that the number of cases has steadily increased over the past five years, rising from 89 cases in 2019 to 156 cases in 2023, with the yearly breakdown as follows: 90 cases in 2020, 94 cases in 2021, and 130 cases in 2022.
“The growing number of consumer claims reflects an increasing awareness among consumers regarding their rights, and the resources provided by the government to protect them,” he said.
Saharuddin explained that the TTPM serves as an alternative platform to the civil courts, enabling consumers to seek compensation for goods purchased or services received in a manner which is both accessible and cost-effective, with filing fees as low as RM5 per claim.
He added that the TTPM has the jurisdiction to hear claims up to a maximum of RM50,000, and only considers claims made within three years of the incident.
-- BERNAMA
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