NGOs form coalition to lobby against rampant bauxite mining

KUANTAN: A group of over 20 NGOs have formed a coalition to lobby against rampant bauxite mining in the state.

The initiative, lead by Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh, consisted of civil and environmental groups such as the Pahang Bar Committee, Malaysian Nature Society, and Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam (Peka).

Several groups like Sahabat Alam Malaysia and Himpunan Hijau, had been active in protesting against other mining issues like Lynas and the Raub goldmine controversy.

"Individual action so far has not been productive, which is why groups need to work together," said Fuziah, during a meeting with the groups on Friday night.

Indera Mahkota MP Datuk Fauzi Abdul Rahman, who also attended, said they needed a singular entity to voice the complaints, as individuals would get little traction.

The coalition aimed to engage the public and create awareness on the impact of bauxite pollution while directing the sentiment towards a more productive approach.

It also planned to file a petition in Parliament, through the two MPs, to call for a stop to bauxite exportation until proper mining regulations are implemented.

Fuziah said other measures like revoking licenses and fining irresponsible mining companies had little impact.

"When there is no demand, there will be no supply. A ban on bauxite exportation will kill all our problems," she said.