SHAH ALAM - The placement of enforcement officers at the country's entry points, such as ports and airports, should be limited to a set time.
National Defence University Malaysia Faculty of Defence Studies and Management senior lecturer Dr Azrul Azlan Abdul Rahman said prolonged service durations by officers could expose them to the risk of external influences, including temptations of corruption or informal relationships with local syndicates.
He cited an example, suggesting that a duration of two or three years was suitable for each officer stationed at a particular location, with a transfer to a new area required after that period.
"This way, officers will not have enough time to form close relationships with certain parties, which could lead to misconduct.
"Regular transfers also facilitate monitoring of customs officers, including internal audits, as their work environment frequently changes.
"Furthermore, it will enhance their effectiveness and motivation," he said.
He was commenting on the issue of six Customs officers being detained by the Malaysian Anti-Coruption Commission for allegedly being involved in a vape smuggling syndicate.