Malang Customs and Regency Government Seize 5,604 Illegal Cigarettes
MALANG — A joint surveillance operation by Malang Customs and the Malang Regency Government on Wednesday (19/8/2026) secured 5,604 illegal cigarettes. The joint team targeted several shops selling untaxed tobacco products, or illegal cigarettes, in the districts of Kepanjen, Pagelaran, Pagak, and Bantur.
Pitoyo Pribadi, Head of the Counselling and Information Services Section at Malang Customs, said the joint operation was a form of implementation of the Tobacco Excise Revenue Sharing Fund (DBH CHT). It also formed part of the synergy between Malang Customs and the Malang Regency Government in suppressing the circulation of illegal cigarettes across the Malang Raya region.
The seized evidence comprised 2,644 cigarettes from two shops in Kepanjen District, 2,340 from a shop in Pagelaran District, and 620 in Pagak District. Meanwhile, an inspection carried out in Bantur District found no illegal cigarettes.
“All of the seized evidence has been secured and taken to the Malang Customs Office for further processing in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations,” said Pitoyo.
He stressed that every rupiah of state revenue secured from the excise sector delivers significant benefits to the public. When illegal cigarettes circulate without official excise stamps, the state loses substantial potential income that could otherwise be allocated for public welfare.
“To ensure these benefits are felt directly in the regions, the government allocates the Tobacco Excise Revenue Sharing Fund (DBH CHT) with a distribution of 40 percent for health, 50 percent for community welfare, and 10 percent for law enforcement,” he said.
In the health sector, the funds are used to support the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, BPJS Kesehatan contributions for the poor, and improvements to health facility infrastructure. In community welfare, the benefits take the form of direct cash assistance (BLT) for tobacco farm labourers and cigarette factory workers, as well as vocational training to enhance people’s skills. Meanwhile, in law enforcement, the funds are used by regional governments in cooperation with Customs for public awareness campaigns, market operations, and the eradication of illegal cigarettes.
Malang Customs called on the public and business operators to play an active role by not selling or distributing illegal cigarettes, and to promptly report any suspected violations in the customs and excise sector. With the support of all parties, surveillance of illegal cigarette circulation is expected to become more effective, thereby protecting state revenue and fostering a healthy and fair business climate.