Calls for clearer K8 guidelines to strengthen petroleum logistics operations
PETALING JAYA: Maritime Network Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Seri Jeyenderan Ramasamy has called on the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) to provide clarification on the implementation of K8 declaration procedures, following concerns over how the process is understood and applied by petroleum industry players.
Jeyenderan said clearer guidance from the authorities would help ensure industry participants have a common understanding of the procedures, particularly regarding the handling of petroleum cargo after it has been discharged into storage facilities at Tanjung Langsat Port, Johor.
“I have informed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) that I sent an email to the RMCD to obtain an official explanation.
“What I am seeking is clarity on how K8 procedures should be applied after petroleum cargo has been discharged into storage tanks,” he told reporters outside the MACC headquarters.
The request followed a previous report lodged with the MACC concerning alleged discrepancies between Bill of Lading (BL) documentation and the physical movement of petroleum cargo at a terminal in Tanjung Langsat Port.
Jeyenderan said the clarification sought from RMCD included questions on the status of cargo declared under the K8 declaration after it enters storage systems, including whether such cargo is required to remain separated throughout the storage period.
He said he also sought further explanation on customs monitoring procedures after cargo is transferred into storage tanks, mechanisms for maintaining traceability between documentation and physical cargo, and requirements to ensure exported cargo remains consistent with the original declaration.
“I am not making any allegations against RMCD or any party. I only want an official explanation so that industry players have a clear understanding of how the K8 system should be implemented in accordance with existing regulations,” he said.
Jeyenderan said greater clarity on the procedures was important as it could affect various operational aspects for petroleum industry players, including cargo movement, trade documentation, financing arrangements, insurance matters and regulatory compliance.
“Industry players need certainty so that operations can continue based on clear procedures.
“Malaysia is strengthening its position as a regional petroleum storage and transfer hub. Therefore, any uncertainty surrounding procedures should be addressed to maintain confidence among businesses and investors,” he said.
He said his company hoped RMCD would provide an official response to the issues raised so that all parties could have a better understanding of the requirements surrounding K8 declarations.
“If existing procedures allow certain practices, they should be clearly explained. If there are areas that require improvement, they can also be reviewed to strengthen governance and transparency,” he said.
Jeyenderan added that clarification from RMCD would help prevent misunderstandings surrounding existing procedures and support confidence in Malaysia’s regulatory framework.
He said Maritime Network would continue to cooperate with the MACC regarding matters raised previously and hoped further clarification from RMCD would help address industry concerns while supporting Malaysia’s position as a trusted petroleum trade and maritime logistics hub.
