Customs personnel will not succumb to pressure, threats
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has expressed confidence that Customs personnel will not succumb to pressure or threats in carrying out their duties.
Speaking at the 36th World Customs Day celebration here yesterday, Najib, who is also Finance Minister, said Customs personnel have shown commitment and dedication in shouldering the trust placed in them with efficiency, firmness and integrity.
“I do not have a shadow of doubt that the Customs Department will show further improvements in terms of delivery and services from year to year.
“In fact, I am confident that no matter the situation, even if cars are burnt, Customs officers will not retreat but instead instead will be stronger in spirit in carrying out their tasks, ” he said.
On Tuesday, four cars belonging to the family of Customs senior assistant director (GST Enforcement) Nur Azman Mat Jini were set on fire at the compound of his house in Precinct 11, believed to be done by people unhappy with him for carrying out his duties diligently.
In the 3.30am incident, the front portion of the house was almost destroyed by flames spreading from the cars.
Najib also said the Customs Department last year succeeded in preventing revenue loss of more than RM1 billion by foiling smuggling activities especially involving cars, cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.
At the event, which was attended by about 2,000 Customs staff. Customs director-general Datuk Seri Subromaniam Tholasy pledged undivided support to the government under the leadership of Najib.
“Let us all (Customs staff) rise up to show the spirit of undivided loyalty to the leadership of Datuk Seri Najib,” he said to thunderous applause from the audience.