Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has expressed confidence that Customs Department personnel will not succumb to pressure or threats in carrying out their duties.

Speaking at the 36th World Customs Day celebration here today, 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 will be stronger in spirit in carrying out their tasks,” he said.

Yesterday, 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 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 Subromaniam Tholasy (left in photo) 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 Najib,” he said to thunderous applause from the audience.

Reciprocating, Najib lauded the support describing it as a “bonus.”

 “I am getting a bonus from this pledge of support for the government. Thank you Customs staff,” he said.

Najib also presented the Customs Personality award to former Customs director-general Abd Rahman Abd Hamid while Former Customs Staff Association of Malaysia president Abdul Rahman Manan was presented the NGO personality award.

 The celebration this year is themed “Safe Business Environment for Economic Development” which focuses on three elements, all on environments, namely conducive, safe and equitable and sustainable.

- Bernama