Sarawak: The management of seized goods by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) in Sarawak can now be carried out more systematically, safely and securely through the Customs Enforcement Office Seizure Storage Facility. "With this new facility, the management of seized items can be carried out in a more systematic, safe and controlled manner, while reducing reliance on rented premises and strengthening the country's enforcement capabilities," Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said in his speech at the handover ceremony of the seizure storage facility to JKDM here today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new storage facility, which cost RM9.98 million, was important because JKDM's existing premises were privately rented and could no longer accommodate the department's growing operational needs. The project was implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR) through Special Project Team 2 (PPK2), beginning May 14, 2024, with the project's Certificate of Practical Completion (CPC) issued on May 26.

He said the facility comprises an operations office building and a seizure storage facility equipped with three storage units, a strong room, an exhibit room, an open burning area, as well as a more systematic and secure storage system. Nanta said the project also adopted JKR's Pre-Approved Plan (PAP) approach, based on the design of the Customs seizure storage facility in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, to expedite the project's design and implementation process.

"This approach also standardises government design standards and optimises the use of resources without compromising safety and quality," he said, adding that the construction also incorporated elements of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda.