THE ROYAL Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) successfully collected RM65.57 billion in revenue in 2024, marking an increase of RM10.40 billion compared to the previous year.
This achievement demonstrates JKDM's capacity to contribute to the sustainable economic growth of MADANI, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today.
In Anwar’s address, in conjunction with the 43rd World Customs Day Celebration, read out by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof today, he said: “Let us use this celebration as a catalyst to reinforce our commitment to the people, bridge the gap between agencies and society, and support efforts to build a fair and prosperous MADANI society.”
He added, JKDM is a key institution that plays a strategic role in driving national development. Over the years, it has fulfilled its core duties, including collecting national revenue and ensuring secure trade channels.
Recognising the critical role of this enforcement body, the Government has allocated RM60 million in the 2025 Budget to support JKDM and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), said Anwar. This allocation reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting the nation’s wealth and ensuring that there are no leaks in public funds.
Anwar cited the outstanding achievements of JKDM Kelantan today, which successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle illegal cigarettes worth RM186,000, leading to a total seizure valued at over RM1 million.
“I believe this success is just one example of many where the efforts of the Customs Department have bolstered law enforcement and safeguarded the nation’s resources from the threat of smuggling.”
“I would like to extend my appreciation to all JKDM personnel for their tireless service, commitment, and sacrifices in contributing to the nation’s prosperity and ensuring the safety of our beloved country. To the fallen heroes of JKDM who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, let us all pray that their souls are blessed and placed among the righteous. Their sacrifices will forever be remembered by the nation and its people,” he said.
Anwar said it is essential that JKDM’s readiness matches the evolving challenges of the times, emphasising technological literacy and creative enforcement strategies. With the rapid advancement of technology, including AI, and the challenges of living in a "post-truth" era, JKDM is now facing even more complex challenges.
Criminal activities are no longer manifesting in the same ways they once did and he confident in the high capabilities of JKDM officers and personnel to continue making significant contributions to the nation’s progress and effectively combat contraband smuggling.
“I must also remind everyone that integrity and trust are the core pillars of public service. The incident involving six JKDM officers in Ops Airways, connected to a smuggling syndicate at KLIA Cargo, should serve as a reminder. I urge JKDM to continue strengthening its integrity values, as the Government’s stance is clear: corruption and violations against the nation’s efforts to progress will be met with strict action.
Also in attendance at the event held in Putarjaya today was JKDM Director General Dato’ Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin. – February 10, 2025
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