Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) to boost integrity among its officers and staff, emphasizing the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stressed that the government’s objectives are explicit, and any corrupt activities undermining efforts to elevate the nation’s status will face strict repercussions. He underscored the importance of maintaining the department’s reputation and the public’s trust during his speech at the 43rd International Customs Day celebrations, which was delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Anwar expressed gratitude to Customs personnel for their dedication to enhancing the country’s revenue and ensuring national security. He reaffirmed that integrity and trust are essential to the civil service and referenced a recent incident involving six JKDM officers linked to a smuggling syndicate at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Cargo Centre as a cautionary example.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) recently detained 13 individuals, including six Customs officers, suspected of involvement in a vape syndicate at KLIA Cargo Centre under Ops Airways.
Anwar highlighted JKDM’s strategic role in national development through revenue collection and securing trade chains. Recognizing its significance, the government allocated RM60 million to JKDM and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Budget 2025 to prevent financial leakages and protect national wealth.
He also urged the department to adapt to technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and the “post-truth” era, to combat evolving crimes effectively. Anwar emphasized the need for Customs staff to enhance technological literacy and innovative enforcement strategies.
Expressing confidence in JKDM’s ability to generate revenue and curb smuggling, Anwar noted that the department’s revenue collection in 2024 reached RM65.57 billion, a significant increase of RM10.40 billion from the previous year. He lauded this achievement as evidence of JKDM’s contribution to sustainable MADANI economic growth.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan and Customs director-general Datuk Ani Rizana Mohd Zainudin also attended the event.