IPOH: The rare earth mining project in Hulu Perak is not located in a forest reserve as claimed, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said he had checked with relevant agencies and confirmed that the lanthanide mining operation would not affect any forest reserve.
"We know that we cannot mine in forest reserves.
"It will be done on land owned by the Perak Agriculture Development Corporation and not in a forest reserve," he told a press conference after launching the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan here on Wednesday (June 15).
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"It is also outside of the Central Forest Spine (CFS) area.
"I have personally checked with the Forestry Department, Land and Mines Department and also the Mineral and Geoscience Department," he added.
Environmental groups have reportedly expressed concern over the project, which they fear would be in a highly sensitive forest reserve area and part of the CFS.
Saarani said he was aware of their concerns.
"It is our stand as well when it comes to the environment. I know they only want what is best for the state and the people.
"I respect their views but I hope they can also check with the relevant agencies to get the correct information," he said.
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Saarani said the state hoped that the permit for the mining operation would be approved soon.
"We are waiting for the approval from the Gerik District Council.
"They are also waiting for the Environmental Management Plan, Erosion Sediment Control Plan and the Environment Impact Assessment report," he said, hoping that all the approvals could be done between August and October.
"We need these materials as a new revenue source, which can benefit the state and the people," he added.
