Labuan Customs Seizes Alcohol Shipment with Nearly RM1 Million in Unpaid Duties, Importer Suspected of Exceeding Quota
(Labuan) The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has seized a large shipment of alcoholic beverages at Labuan Port, involving nearly RM1 million in unpaid taxes. A licensed importing company is now under investigation.
The operation took place on March 17 at حوالي 10:00 AM, when enforcement officers conducted an inspection at the port and detained three 20-foot containers. What initially appeared to be a routine shipment quickly raised red flags upon closer examination.
According to Labuan Customs Director Aspalila Ag Tuah, the containers were filled with various alcoholic beverages valued at approximately RM343,400. However, the bigger issue lies in the unpaid duties, which amount to a staggering RM948,168.61.
Interestingly, this was not a case of outright smuggling. The company involved does hold a valid import permit, with its license period running from March 20, 2025 to March 19, 2026.
The problem, however, lies in the import quota.
Further investigations revealed that the company had been approved to import up to 250,000 litres of alcohol, but is suspected of exceeding that limit by an additional 52,746.24 litres.
In simple terms: the permit was valid, but the usage may have gone beyond what was allowed.
Authorities have since launched a detailed investigation under relevant laws to determine whether any offences have been committed. If violations are confirmed, the company could face fines or further enforcement action.
Malaysia
