After Customs flags import irregularities, maritime expert asks MACC to revisit RM220m crude cargo report

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 - A maritime industry leader has questioned whether the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should revisit his June 5 report on alleged discrepancies in petroleum cargo records, in light of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department's recent report on import declaration irregularities. Datuk Seri R. Jeyenderan, CEO of Maritime Network Sdn Bhd, submitted the report over inconsistencies between bills of lading and the actual movement of petroleum cargo at Tanjung Langsat Port, Johor, involving two cargoes of Atlanta Crude totalling 76,954.325 metric tonnes, valued at over RM220 million.

Jeyenderan, with more than three decades of experience in the maritime sector, inquired if new information from Customs could prompt the MACC to reassess his concerns. Customs Director-General Datuk Seri Amran Ahmad revealed that importers had allegedly manipulated documents, under-declared cargo value and weight, and used incorrect tariff codes to dodge or minimize import duties and taxes, potentially leading to significant revenue losses for the government.

Jeyenderan emphasized the importance of traceability, questioning how authorities and relevant parties could verify what happened to the cargo after it entered storage tanks containing existing inventory, including any subsequent mixing or blending. He stressed that all parties involved must clearly define their roles and responsibilities.

Jeyenderan seeks MACC's clarification on whether the Customs disclosure warrants further investigation, specifically regarding the accuracy of cargo declarations and the regulatory treatment of petroleum products. He called for authorities to clarify if there were any regulatory or revenue implications arising from the handling of petroleum cargoes, particularly in scenarios involving shared storage tanks and blending arrangements.