This photograph was taken on 26th January at 11:30 am in Peshawar. January is not just the start of a new year; it has personal significance for me. It marks the birthdays of my dear schoolmate Sadiq Akbar on the 8th, my son Aisam Khan on the 16th, and mine on the 25th. Yet, January 26th stands out globally as International Customs Day, transforming Peshawar Customs House into a vibrant hub of activity.
This annual event, synonymous with excellence, brings together senior and junior officers of Pakistan Customs alongside distinguished guests from various other organisations . It’s not just a celebration but a reflection of the professionalism and collaboration that highlight the vital role customs play in global trade and security.
At the heart of this grand event is my lifelong friend and classmate, Sadiq Akbar. A dedicated customs officer, Sadiq is a whirlwind of energy, especially in the weeks leading up to the ceremony. Whether coordinating logistics or ensuring protocol, his passion and determination make this event a resounding success every year. This year, however, holds special significance—it’s the last ceremony Sadiq will organize before his honorable retirement.
Traveling from Islamabad to be part of this event was a heartfelt decision. My bond with Sadiq dates back to the 1970s when we studied together at Presentation Convent Swat, an institution that promoted harmony and peaceful coexistence across cultures and faiths. Such values, rare in today’s world, stood in contrast to the commodification of education, which now fuels identity crises among students caught between East and West.
The ongoing ceremony at Peshawar Customs House is nothing short of remarkable. Esteemed officers deliver speeches highlighting the pivotal role of customs in facilitating trade, ensuring security, and driving economic growth. Awards are presented to officers whose hard work sustains the nation’s commerce. Amid the buzz, Sadiq’s calm yet commanding presence stands out. Watching him warmly welcome guests, direct his team, and oversee every detail fills me with pride and admiration.
For me, the day reaffirmed customs’ critical role in supporting international trade. Pakistan Customs, as the revenue-generating arm of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), keeps the country’s economic engine running. For Sadiq, however, the stakes are even higher—his department’s image is on the line. Thanks to his meticulous execution, the ceremony adheres to the guidelines of his Honourable Chief Collector Khawaja Khurram , respected collector Zia Ul Shams, and the constant guidance of Karam Elahi, Head of Customs Intelligence and a dear common friend, since his days of being kidnapped for no obvious reason other than his selfless effort to automation of trade at the Pak – Afghan border .
International Customs Day is more than an event; it’s a tribute to unity, dedication, and the unsung heroes ensuring the seamless flow of global trade. My heartfelt homage goes to the brave customs officers who laid down their lives to prevent money laundering, adhering to the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) guidelines. These sacrifices underscore the challenges faced by customs personnel, both men and women, operating in some of the country’s harshest environments—from the Pak-Afghan border in Khyber to the Gwadar port in Balochistan and the Pak-China border at Sust.
As I turned behind the customs house’s rear wall to approach the entrance, a moment touched me deeply. I saw a young, veiled girl rushing on foot to make it to the ceremony on time. Her dedication moved me, symbolizing the resilience of Pakistani daughters standing shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts in serving the nation.
International Customs Day is not just about celebration but recognition—a reminder of the sacrifices and commitment of those safeguarding our nation’s trade and security.Long Live Pakistan 🇵🇰