KUCHING: Sarawak does not see the need to make rare earth element (REE) mining activities its main industry despite being listed in the 10 states with high REE yields, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the industry will affect the environment, pointing out that this goes against the state government’s goal of emphasising the green economy agenda.
“We are not desperate to carry out REE mining activities. A study needs to be done first because it has a negative impact on the environment. We need to focus on other economic activities,” he said.
According to the Minerals and Geosciences Department, 10 states have been identified as having potential REE – namely Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Kedah, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Selangor and Sarawak – with an estimated value of RM809.6bil.
On another matter, the Premier said the process of Sarawak’s takeover of MASwings Sdn Bhd (MASwings) is expected to be finalised by the first quarter of next year.
He said the process had to be extended to give time for appointed auditors to examine the value of MASwings’ assets.
