The official function to mark 119th Anniversary of Maldives Customs Service was held at Rannaban’deyri Maalan / Dharubaaruge on 18 July 2009. The Chief Guest of this function was Vice President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik.

Vice President of Maldives Dr. Mohameed Waheed Hassan Manik in addressing Customs staff and invitees said that there was no other institution that can play a bigger role in controlling drug trafficking into the country than the Customs Service.

Speaking in this regard, Dr Waheed called on all Customs officers to continue to carry out this important task. He further assured that the government would provide its support and cooperation in this endeavour.

Highlighting that the drugs menace was the biggest problem that the country faced today, Dr Waheed said some recent surveys predict that within the next 2 or 3 years, 2/3 of students in grades 8 – 10 will use some form of illicit drug. He also said some children as young as 9 years old have been found to be addicted to drugs.

Dr Waheed said that inspection of the vast open areas surrounding the country would not be an easy task. He further said that he, therefore, understood the difficulties faced by Customs officers to control the checkpoints and expressed his appreciation for their diligent work.

Minister of State, Principal Collector of Customs Mr. Mohamed Aswan delivered the welcome speech, in which he commented on the achievements of the previous year and revealed the action plan for the coming year.

At this function commemorative plagues were presented to 17 officers for their exemplary service, Customs Image Enhancement awards were presented to 18 officers. 3 officers were presented with plagues of 20 Years of Service. 8 officers were presented with plagues of retirement while Customs Special Award was given to 4 officers.