The Port Klang Authority (PKA) has introduced a new standard operating procedure (SOP) as a guideline for detention, inspection, and release of containers by all enforcement agencies, government agencies, port authorities, and logistic industry players.
The draft SOP was finalised in a meeting on 22 October and the new SOP will come into effect from 1 January 2022. The general manager of the port circulated a notice saying that the SOP will be applicable in the case of both the full container load (FCL) and less container load (LCL) containers in the Port Klang area. Under the SOP, the port’s terminal system must display the name of the officer, enforcement agency/port authority, division/unit/branch, office telephone number and official email.
This is to make it easier for the customs agent to be involved in liaising with the officers involved for the purpose of inspection and release of containers. If a container is detained by them the importer must contact and submit the relevant supporting documents within 24 hours after the box is detained. If no response is received within seven days from the date the container is detained, the box will be arranged for inspection, unless the department of quarantine and inspection services Malaysia, which requires mandatory supporting documents, prevent the opening of the container.
While commodities are under the strategic trade act, the relevant enforcement agency can open the container at any time. If the enforcement agency/port authority is satisfied with the documents submitted and decides not to conduct an inspection, the container will be released immediately. Otherwise, the port authority shall conduct an inspection within 24 hours after the box is moved to the inspection centre.
The SOP says if the inspection involves more than one agency including different units, then the inspection in an integrated manner should be carried out and separate inspections are prohibited. The containers cannot be opened by the terminal operator without the presence of the enforcement agencies and port authority together as well as an appointed customs agent or shipping agent.
author: Sharar Nayel
