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PUTRAJAYA: The National Physical Planning Council has approved planning guidelines for rare earth elements (REE) mining activities to ensure they are conducted in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming (pic) said the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia) drew up the guidelines to facilitate and support sustainable environmental management in mining activities.
"REEs are key components in chips and high-end technology products.
"It is important to regulate mining activities to protect the environment and prevent illegal exploration which could cause environmental damage and result in the loss of national revenue,” he said in a statement on Friday (Aug 16).
According to the Minerals and Geoscience Department, Malaysia has an estimated 16.1 million tonnes of rare earth minerals with a market value of RM809.6bil.
Nga said the guidelines prohibit REE mining in forest reserves and impose an export ban on raw materials.
They also include incorporating the mapping of potential REE mineral areas into the Development Plan by designating permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited zones for mining activities.
Additionally, they list the requirements for planning permission related to REE mining, suggesting that companies must obtain this before or during the submission of their operational mining scheme (OMS).
"PLANMalaysia will provide advisory services... in terms of economic, social and environmental aspects to ensure that each mining operation is conducted in a planned and sustainable manner.
"Through the guidelines, we aim to increase state revenue, create more job opportunities and generate new economic prospects for those engaged in downstream industries,” he added.
The National Physical Planning Council held its 45th meeting on Thursday (Aug 15) chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. – Bernama
