PUTRAJAYA: The recent arrest of several Customs officers in connection with a vape smuggling syndicate at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) should serve as a reminder to the civil service that integrity is crucial, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“I want to remind you that integrity and trust are the main pillars of the civil service.
“The incident where six Royal Malaysia Customs Department officers were involved with a vape smuggling syndicate at the KLIA Cargo Hub should serve as a reminder,” he said in his opening remarks at the 43rd World Customs Day celebration here yesterday.
Anwar’s speech was read by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Also present were Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan and Customs director-general Datuk Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin.
In January, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) busted a vape smuggling syndicate at the KLIA Cargo Hub after arresting 14 individuals, including six Customs officers, suspected of colluding in the illegal operation.
The syndicate was uncovered through Ops Airways, which led to the arrest of all the male suspects, aged between 20 and 60, in raids around KLIA and Putrajaya.
Anwar urged the Customs Department to continue fostering integrity among its officers as Putrajaya would take stern action against corruption and abuse of power.
“No matter who the individual is, we should not tarnish the good name of the department and erode the public trust towards us,” he added.
Anwar also said a sense of belonging must continue to be nurtured among Customs officers.
“This is very important; officers and the big family of Customs must understand the impact of their efforts on the country.
“With this understanding, then we will be able to carry out our duties together with integrity and responsibility,” said Anwar.
