In an interview with FMT, Anis Rizana noted that enforcement agencies involved in revenue collection were at risk of corruption, adding that the customs department officers who were recently arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) had been transferred to “low-risk” postings.

She also said her department had taken several steps to foster a culture of integrity and performance among its staff, such as surprise inspections and working visits to customs department offices across the country.

“Surprise inspections give me the opportunity to see firsthand the challenges faced by customs department personnel on the ground, address unhealthy work culture, and make necessary improvements in terms of operations and welfare,” she said.

In January, MACC said six customs officers were among 14 people arrested when the agency crippled a vape smuggling syndicate at the KLIA cargo centre.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said the syndicate – which cost the country about RM8 million in lost tax revenue – had paid bribes of up to RM6,000 a day to customs officers who were involved in an international network which produced false customs declarations.

Anis Rizana said the customs department was also utilising technology to optimise its operations and prevent dishonest acts.

“The department has introduced several systems to improve work efficiency and effectiveness, such as the import/export supporting documents system,” she said.

“This reduces human interaction, and therefore the opportunity for corruption.”