AI chips worth $12.1 million seized at Malaysia airport, customs authority says
SMH•Malaysian customs seized advanced AI chips worth about 49.5 million ringgit ($12.11 million) at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on October 15. Authorities said the shipment was falsely declared and may be linked to a syndicate involved in at least five cases with seizures worth more than 100 million ringgit in total.
1. Airport seizure
Customs found 30 server units containing advanced AI chips during an inspection in the free trade zone at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on October 15. The shipment was valued at about 49.5 million ringgit ($12.11 million), customs director Aspalila Ag Tuah said.
2. Suspected smuggling network
Initial investigations found the shipment originated in an Asian country and was to be re-exported to another country in the region, a move that required a trade permit. Aspalila said the servers were falsely declared as electronic components and shipped through Malaysia to avoid restrictions at their next destination. A Malaysian firm that facilitated the shipment was called in to assist investigations.
3. Broader investigation
Authorities suspect the shipment was carried out by a network linked to a similar smuggling attempt foiled in June. At least five cases were linked to the syndicate, involving seizures of chips worth more than 100 million ringgit in total, Aspalila said.
