Datuk Sri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, the Chief Minister of Pahang, has refuted claims of unauthorised extraction of non-radioactive rare earth elements (NRREE) within forest reserve areas in Lipis district. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), Nik Nazmi in response towards the the refusal said, “My statement in the Dewan Rakyat is regarding illegal mining activities in the relevant area.”
“The specific site under scrutiny is Compartment 411 of the Ulu Jelai Forest Reserve in Lipis district, which was flagged as an illegal mining location in March 2023.
Initial investigations uncovered laboratory equipment and materials suggestive of rare earth element (REE) mining operations.
However, further probes are underway to ascertain the actual occurrence of rare earth material extraction at the site.” he added.
Acknowledging the Pahang State Government’s efforts, particularly the establishment of the Elite Enforcement Unit in 2019 to monitor unlawful land encroachments, including mining activities, the statement commended these proactive measures.
In light of the adverse consequences associated with unregulated REE mining, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRES) has pledged continued collaboration with the State Government to combat illegal mining endeavors.
