An MOU between the Government of Malaysia represented by the Royal Malaysian Customs and the Government of the Republic of Maldives represented by the Maldives Customs Service on cooperation and mutual assistance on Customs matters was signed on 11th March 2009. On behalf of Maldives Customs Service Principal Collector of Customs Mr. Mohamed Aswan signed the MOU, and Director General of Royal Malaysian Customs Dato' Haji Ibrahim Bin Haji Jaapar signed the MOU from Royal Malaysian Customs. This MOU signing ceremony was attended by Customs Executives and Senior officers, as well as some Officials from government and public sector. The function was held at Meerubahuru Maalan.

Under the MOU Royal Malaysian Customs will provide technical assistance and consultancy in the implementation of various reform and modernization programs in Maldives Customs Service. The MOU will also facilitate exchange of information in investigations carried out by both parties.

A Bilateral Meeting between the two Customs Administrations was subsequently held on 12 March 2009 in Farumeytu Kotari, Customs Building. During the meeting, presentations were given by the Maldives Customs Service on Risk Management, Airport Operations and Sea Port Operations. Royal Malaysian delegates gave presentations on International Cooperation, AKMAL and FOS in Malaysia.

The meeting ended with an action plan to carry forward activities during the year.

CJ hopes this strategic partnership will be fruitful to both parties.