Two licensed Kelantan firms expected to start rare earth mining
The companies are nearing completion of the environmental approval process and will work with Perbadanan Menteri Besar Kelantan.
Kelantan expects two licensed local companies to start extracting rare earth elements (REE), Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said. The mining operations will involve collaboration with Perbadanan Menteri Besar Kelantan (PMBK).
Environmental impact assessment approval from the Department of Environment remains at the final stage for both operators, he said. Kelantan would also make its own arrangements to market their output.
He was speaking to reporters following the State Legislative Assembly sitting on Oct 29 at the Kota Darulnaim Complex in Kota Bharu.
On illegal mining, Mohamed Fadzli said authorities had seized 62 excavators valued at RM15.8 million that were suspected of involvement in such activities. The enforcement raids followed tip-offs from residents and relevant agencies.
He said several exploration permit holders had undertaken mining illegally instead of assessing sites and estimating mineral yields. Repeat offenders could face asset forfeiture and maximum fines, he added.
