Brunei underscores unity, resilience at Asean Customs meeting
Datin Seri Zety Sufina Sani delivering her speech virtually at the 34th Meeting of the Asean Directors-General of Customs. - BB
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Datin Seri Paduka Zety Sufina Sani has underscored the importance of Asean's unity and the role of Customs administrations in safeguarding trade flows and supporting economic resilience especially in light of the recent developments concerning tariff measures introduced by the United States.
In her speech delivered virtually at the opening ceremony of the 34th Meeting of the Asean Directors-General of Customs on Tuesday (June 3) she said: 'Let us continue to stand together to uphold the principles of openness, fairness and mutual respect in international trade.'
As Asean Customs progresses through the pivotal phase of modernisation and regional cooperation, she highlighted, 'we are reminded of our collective duty – to serve with integrity, to lead with foresight, and to collaborate with purpose.
"As we pursue constructive dialogues and embrace our shared responsibilities, I invite everyone to engage actively and participate in the sharing of knowledge and experience for our mutual benefits.'
In a welcoming speech, the incoming Chair, Acting Controller of the Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED) Muhammad Azizil Hakim Brahim emphasised the importance of advancing Customs modernisation and collaboration to achieve the objectives of the Asean Community Vision 2025.
He also highlighted the significant progress made under the Strategic Plan on Customs Development (SPCD) 2021–2025, particularly in digital transformation and trade facilitation, while outlining forthcoming initiatives for 2026–2030.
The meeting started on Tuesday (June 3) and continues until Wednesday in Bandar Seri Begawan, with the aim of strengthening regional Customs cooperation and advancing Asean integration through key initiatives such as the Asean Single Window and the Asean Customs Transit System.
The meeting also focuses on enhancing trade facilitation through streamlined procedures, regulatory efficiency, and inclusive policies to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The 34th Meeting of the Asean Directors-General of Customs hosted by the RCED, Ministry of Finance and Economy was attended by some 90 delegates from 10 Customs administrations of Asean member states, Timor-Leste, the Asean Secretariat and Asean Dialogue partners. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
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