The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has successfully seized contraband goods worth RM1.29 billion including duties and taxes from January to July this year, an increase of 28% compared to RM1.01 billion in the same period last year.
Although the number of cases decreased slightly to 4,438 compared to 4,528 last year, the value of seizures increased due to the focus on large-scale syndicates.
Among the major seizures were 3,579 kilograms of drugs worth RM370.35 million, 1.49 billion illegal cigarettes worth RM268.10 million, and 59.66 million litres of liquor worth RM62.62 million.
By state, Selangor recorded the highest seizure of RM196.24 million, followed by Johor (RM174.83 million), Sarawak (RM139.93 million), Sabah (RM90.24 million) and KLIA (RM78.24 million).
Customs Director-General Datuk Anis Rizana said the increase in seizure value proved the success of the new strategy which emphasised results, including focusing investigations on high-value container shipments.
He also reminded that smuggling activities, especially cigarettes, alcohol, firecrackers, drugs and vehicles, not only harmed the country's revenue but also threatened public safety.
