SEPANG: A total of 72 servers containing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chips worth nearly RM53mil were seized after the equipment was transited through the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Free Commercial Zone without the necessary permits.
The seizure was carried out by Customs department officers at about 4.30pm on June 5.
KLIA Customs director Zulkifli Muhammad said preliminary investigations revealed that the servers were destined for re-export to another Asian country after arriving in Malaysia.
He said the syndicate had declared the shipment as computer components in an apparent attempt to avoid detection by the authorities.
"The syndicate also used Malaysia as a transit point to ensure there were no restrictions during the export process to the final destination.
"We believe the servers, valued at RM52.92mil inclusive of duties and taxes, originated from an Asian country," he told a press conference at the KLIA Cargo Customs Complex on Friday (June 26).
Zulkifli said investigations are ongoing, and an individual has been detained to assist in the probe.
He added that the servers, which contain advanced AI chips, are believed to be subject to controls involving unlisted items and restricted activities under the Strategic Trade Act 2010.
He reminded importers and exporters that anyone intending to export, transship or bring in transit controlled advanced AI chips must notify the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry's Strategic Trade Secretariat at least 30 days before carrying out such activities.
The case is being investigated under Section 12 of the Strategic Trade Act 2010.
