PUTRAJAYA, Feb 10- The values of integrity among members of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) needs to be further strengthened, as well as continuing to safeguard the department's good name.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this is in line with the government's goal of not tolerating any corrupt practices.

"The government’s goal is clear and the practice of corruption and violations against efforts to elevate the nation’s status will be met with stern action," he said.

"Don't ever smear the good name of the department and destroy the people's trust in us," he stressed.

Anwar's firmness was expressed following several cases involving integrity issues among JKDM personnel which should be taken as a lesson.

Meanwhile, the JKDM needs to be prepared and in line with changing times and technological developments to face the increasingly complex challenges of crime.

"So, the preparedness of the Customs staff today must align with the increasingly challenging times and technological literacy while our ability to be more creative in enforcement must be a priority," he said.

"I'm confident of the JKDM personnel's capability to continue bringing in encouraging revenue to the country as well as combating the crime of smuggling more effectively," he said.

The text of his speech was read out by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof in conjunction with the 43rd International Customs Day celebrations at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) today.

Also present at the event were Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan and Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.