IPOH: The claim made by Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor that the Federal Government is deliberately delaying rare earth mining procedures is incorrect, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (pic).
The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister said the Federal Government prepared the standard operating procedure (SOP) for mining rare earth elements (REE) in December 2023.
"The accusation is baseless. We've already clarified it in a press statement in October last year.
"The SOP for REE mining in Malaysia has been completed and circulated to all states in a letter dated December 20, 2023," he said on Monday (May 19).
"The SOP contains comprehensive guidelines, covering technical aspects, environmental compliance, mine site rehabilitation, and export regulations," he said, adding that the SOP is a reference document based on existing laws.
"It was drawn up to allow state governments to adjust its implementation according to each state's laws," he added.
Muhammad Sanusi reportedly said in a Malay daily on May 16 that the government was stalling the SOP issuance, hindering the development of SG4 (Perikatan Nasional State Governments) states.
Nik Nazmi said any delays or constraints at the state level should not be blamed entirely on the Federal Government.
"It should be emphasised that exploration activities are under the jurisdiction of the state government.
"For example, in Kedah, it has been enshrined in the Kedah Mineral Enactment through the prospecting and exploration licences," he said.
"The Ministry stresses that any REE mining activities are prohibited in permanent forest reserves, environmentally sensitive areas, and protected reserves.
"Activities in other areas can continue, subject to compliance with established policies, acts, and guidelines," he added.
Nik Nazmi said the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that the development of the mineral sector is carried out responsibly and sustainably.
"This is not only for economic progress, but also for the well-being of future generations regardless of the state.
"It is crucial for all parties, including state leaders, to stick to the facts and not use natural resource policy as a political tool," he said. The people need closer cooperation between the federal and state governments to achieve real progress," he added.
