CUSTOMS HAS TIGHTENED SCREENING, INSPECTION MEASURES FOLLOWING MAJOR DRUG SMUGGLING CASES IN 2023 – DG

By Nur Syahidayah Mahasan

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17 (Bernama) -- A 100 per cent scanning policy, the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-based inspection systems, and mandatory pre-declaration for every container at ports are among the strict measures implemented following two major drug smuggling incidents at Port Klang in 2023.

Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) director-general Datuk Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin said the 100 per cent scanning, including for export containers, had been in effect since Nov 15, 2023, with Malaysia currently the only country implementing this, according to the World Customs Organisation review.

“Although the measure faced opposition from various parties including industry players and politicians, it is necessary to ensure the integrity and security of the country’s entry points,” she told Bernama.

In 2023, two drug smuggling cases were uncovered after the seizure of 376 kilogrammes (kg) of heroin on March 13 and 662 kg of methamphetamine on Oct 4 by the Australian Border Force.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, while in Sabah yesterday, touched on the cases once again, and emphasised that aggressive measures had been taken by the MADANI government after decades of inaction against smuggling cartels and syndicates.

Anwar reportedly said that since the cases were reported, aggressive action by the relevant agencies had resulted in seizures worth RM15.5 billion, with several individuals prosecuted in court.

Anis Rizana said improvements also included the upgrading of scanning equipment with AI technology, dual-angle imaging, and dual energy, with the acquisitions approved by the Prime Minister, who is also Finance Minister.

She added that the combination of AI technology and JKDM officers’ expertise had improved efficiency and integrity in container clearance processes, particularly at Port Klang.

JKDM is currently procuring new scanning machines to replace four units at Port Klang, two in Penang, and one in Johor, with approvals from the Finance Ministry.

Other measures include mandatory pre-declaration (Customs Form 2), requiring exporters to submit declarations before scanning.

“In addition, JKDM has enforced rotation of officers handling scanners in accordance with the Public Service Department (JPA) circular, requiring at least 50 per cent rotation.

“The Import Export Supporting Document System (SDSIE), introduced in September 2023, also reduces physical interaction as documents are stored online. This system was upgraded to MyCIEDS in January 2025 with improved audit capabilities,” she said.

She added that officers had also undergone Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) courses to enhance the ability to detect suspicious behaviour.

Anis Rizana said these measures had also increased national revenue collection to RM62.47 billion from January to October 2025, compared with RM53.63 billion during the same period last year.

She explained that container inspections within JKDM’s operational areas fell under its jurisdiction, while illegal activities outside these areas were under police authority, with close cooperation, including with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

She also highlighted that regular unannounced inspections were conducted at ports.

“Since becoming the director-general, I have conducted more than 20 surprise inspections at Port Klang, including at midnight or 3 am, without uniform. The aim is to ensure officers remain alert, follow instructions, and maintain integrity. Alhamdulillah, all has gone smoothly,” she said.

-- BERNAMA