PUTRAJAYA: The National Resources, Energy and Climate Change Ministry is in the process of drafting a policy to address the problem of illegal rare earth mining. Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad stated that the policy, which will cover both downstream and upstream aspects, aims to add value to the extraction of rare earth elements (REE) and meet the global demand resulting from energy transition initiatives. On Friday (July 14), during a press conference, Minister Nik Ahmad revealed that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has assigned the ministry the responsibility of ensuring the sustainable extraction of rare earth elements. He emphasized the need to strike a balance between natural resource utilization and environmental protection.
Minister Nik Ahmad made these comments in response to the arrest of nine individuals, including four Myanmar nationals, who were apprehended by Kedah police for their alleged involvement in smuggling immigrants to exploit the illegal mining of REE in Bukit Enggang Forest Reserve in Sik.
In a separate matter, Minister Nik Ahmad disclosed plans to meet with the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) in order to follow up on their findings regarding the faulty barrage gate at Sungai Muda. He acknowledged receiving a comprehensive report from SPAN and expressed interest in their proposals. Minister Nik Ahmad highlighted the importance of addressing water supply issues holistically, considering their critical nature.
Preliminary findings from SPAN revealed that the faulty barrage gate incident occurred outside of working hours, as the staff only operated from 8.30am to 4.30pm with off days on Fridays and Saturdays during dry seasons. Round-the-clock surveillance was conducted solely during rainy or flood seasons. The incident took place on May 13, a Saturday at 10pm, when the faulty barrage gate opened. This resulted in a significant decrease in water levels by sunrise on May 14, affecting approximately 678,983 consumers in Penang and Kedah.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
