"Maluku Customs takes concrete steps to safeguard the vast island region through land patrols, field surveys, and sea patrols. One focus area is the Wallacea network, which is prone to smuggling activities via sea routes".
Ambon (ANTARA) - The Maluku Regional Office of Customs is intensifying efforts to prevent the circulation of illegal goods by strengthening its supervisory role, law enforcement, and public education for both communities and businesses.

Head of Maluku Customs Estty Purwadiani Hidayatie said in Ambon on Friday that the institution not only serves as a law enforcement body but also as a strategic partner for society and businesses to ensure that goods entering and leaving the Maluku region comply with regulations.

“We must eradicate the circulation of illegal goods such as untaxed cigarettes and illicit alcohol,” she said.

According to her, supervision is carried out by tightening controls on goods entering and leaving through ports and airports, while also monitoring the domestic distribution chain.

Law enforcement is applied through firm action against violations, including handling illegal excise goods, narcotics, and other smuggled items.

Meanwhile, education targets communities and businesses to help them understand regulations and support efforts to combat illegal trade.

“Through education, we expect the public and businesses not only to comply with regulations but also to serve as partners by providing information when they find signs of violations,” she added.

Estty explained that Maluku Customs takes concrete steps to safeguard the vast island region through land patrols, field surveys, and sea patrols. One focus area is the Wallacea network, which is prone to smuggling activities via sea routes.

“With this mitigation approach, Maluku Customs seeks to close entry points for illegal goods, protect communities, support domestic industries, and safeguard state revenue,” she said.

She emphasized that preventing the circulation of illegal goods is a shared responsibility. Public support, she added, is crucial to make Customs oversight more effective and comprehensive.

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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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