Negeri MB supports SOPs for proper mining of rare earth elements

Illegal mining through in-site leaching of rare earth elements was uncovered by the authorities in Kampung Sikai, Kuala Pilah, in May. (Facebook pic)

SEREMBAN: Standard operating procedures on mining for rare earth elements (REE) to be formulated by the government will ensure such activities are carried out safely without wasting resources.

Menteri besar Aminuddin Harun said it would also provide revenue to the state government as Negeri Sembilan has great potential in developing REE.

He said it would also resolve issues related to the theft of the minerals in the country.

“The state government is waiting for these SOPs. We identified REE deposits three years ago because of their potential as a source of revenue for the state.

“But we did not announce it to avoid parties taking advantage of the REE,” he told reporters after attending the state-level 2023 National Day celebration here today.

Natural resources, environment and climate change minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad was earlier reported as saying that his ministry would convene a meeting of a committee chaired by him under the National Minerals Council soon to discuss REE-related guidelines and SOPs. - FMT