MELAKA (Oct 29): The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) recorded a revenue collection of RM70.15 billion as of Sept 30, an increase of 23.06% or RM13.145 billion compared to the same period last year.

Its director general, Datuk Seri Amran Ahmad, said that the achievement reflects the continuous contribution of the department in strengthening the fiscal position and supporting the development of the country.

"With the development of international trade and the increase in cross-border threats, the JKDM's role has also evolved from revenue administration to a modern customs institution that plays a strategic role at the country's main entry points.

"The JKDM implements three main pillars, namely revenue collection, trade facilitation and law enforcement to strengthen the economy, facilitate legitimate trade, and protect the safety, health and well-being of the community," he said.

He said this while delivering a speech at the 'Istiadat Mengarak Gencana Diraja Kastam', in conjunction with the 63rd anniversary of the JKDM's conferment of the 'Diraja' (royal) title (a prestigious recognition that has symbolised the department's legacy of service, discipline, and nation-building since 1963) at the Royal Malaysian Customs Academy here on Thursday.

Amran said that on Oct 29, 1963, the Customs and Excise Department, now known as the JKDM, was conferred the royal title by the third Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the late Tuanku Syed Putra Al-Haj Ibni Al-Marhum Syed Hassan Jamalullail, in recognition of its contributions to the development of the nation.

He said at that time, customs and excise revenue contributed more than 50% of the total annual revenue of the federal government.

"The 'Diraja' title is not merely an inherited pride, but rather a great trust that must be upheld through the quality of service, discipline, and integrity of every member of the department.

"Every decision, action, and service provided must reflect the dignity of the royal title upheld by the JKDM," he added.

The 'Gencana Diraja' (royal emblem) that was paraded at Thursday’s ceremony symbolises the identity, dignity, and continuity of the trust of all JKDM members in serving the King, the nation and the people.

On the occasion of its 63rd anniversary, the JKDM reaffirmed its commitment to continuously enhance service excellence, enforcement authority, and departmental integrity in line with the aspirations of "competence, integrity, and firmness" for the benefit of the people and the nation.

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