The Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG) stopped work at the Bukit Perangin mining site near Kubang Pasu last Thursday after a fatal accident. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said an initial report found the area was unstable and posed a risk of further collapse.
The initial investigation by JMG found that the mining company had cordoned off the area, but no safety signs or warnings were placed near the incident area. The main eyewitness said the workers had violated management instructions to carry out work in the designated area.
A follow-up inspection via drones identified numerous cracks in the rock structure that could lead to collapses, and the work area is still classified as unsafe.
“All workings in the mine have been instructed to cease operation in accordance with Section 21(2) of the Mineral Development Act 1994, and an order has been issued to close all access to the incident area until the investigation is completed,” Nik Nasmi said.
The holder of the Mining Operation Scheme Approval Letter (SKSPM) has been instructed to submit a comprehensive report on the fatal accident, a review of the safety management plan, and a slope stability assessment report and mitigation for further action by the JMG and the ministry. – Bernama
