Negeri Sembilan approves SOP for mining of rare earth elements

 

Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Aminuddin Harun said state industry and non-Muslim affairs action committee chairman Teo Kok Seong would travel to China to learn more about mining of rare earth elements. (Bernama pic)

SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan government has approved the standard operating procedure (SOP) for the mining of non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE) in the state, says menteri besar Aminuddin Harun.

The minerals and geoscience department previously said two districts in the state – Jelebu and Kuala Pilah – have identified NR-REE deposits, and the exploration in these areas will not involve forest reserves.

In a Bernama report today, Aminuddin said it would be mandatory for mining companies to enter into joint ventures (JVs) with state subsidiary, Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBINS), if they were looking to mine rare earth elements in the state.

Apart from generating revenue for the state, Aminuddin said forming JVs would ensure that there were no adverse environmental impact from the mining of rare earth elements and the relevant laws would be followed.

Speaking to reporters after chairing the state exco meeting at Wisma Negeri in Seremban, Aminuddin said the JVs would also enable the state authorities to monitor and control the mining of rare earth elements.

He added that some private companies had already submitted requests to mine NR-REE in the state.

Aminuddin also said individual landowners had the option to apply for mining on their respective lands. They will not need to enter JVs with MBINS.

He added that state industrialisation committee chairman Teo Kok Seong would be making a working visit to REE factories in China this month. - FMT