KUALA LUMPUR: Weddings are never complete without photographs. But sadly some couples in East Malaysia were allegedly taken for a ride by a bridal house, when the photography packages they paid for turned out to be a con job.

The MCA Public Services and Complaints Bureau chief Datuk Michael Chong said 10 couples have lodged complaints and police reports against the Superstar Bridal Gallery Sdn Bhd, for cheating.

He said the bridal house based in Kuala Lumpur had earlier conducted a wedding photography roadshow in Sabah and Sarawak to lure couples into signing up for the packages.

"They offered great discounts and a 5-star hotel stay for the couples who paid in full and other discounts and freebies for those who put down big deposits," he said.

The bridal photography packages ranged from RM2,000 (S$817.60) to RM4,000 (S$1635.20).

Chong said the couples were given a duration of three years from the date of signing up to take the shots, but when the victims tried to contact the bridal house for an appointment, they could not be reached.

"A few of them flew down to visit the bridal house in Jalan Ipoh but it wasn't fruitful, as the shop was closed.

"We are not surprised if this is one of the latest scams designed to cheat people, especially couples," Chong said, warning the public.

Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Photography Association president Jeffrey Sek, who had also received numerous complaints regarding the scam, said the association was disappointed with the recent case and would try to help the victims involved.

"Though the bridal house is not registered with our association, we wish to render our assistance to the victims who have been cheated.

"It may not be in terms of cash but probably we can arrange for another photo shoot or render any other services within our capability," Sek said.

Chong, who is also the adviser of the association, urged the employees of Superstar Bridal Gallery to contact the bureau or the association to help in the probe.

"The employees can also be held responsible for their bosses' action. So please cooperate with us," he said.

Chong also advised couples interested in signing up for wedding photography packages to be careful when making their pick, especially if the offer is too promising.