SOPs for Rare Earth Elements Mining Needed to Prevent Corruption, Says Azam Baki
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Azam Baki has urged state governments to establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) for mining rare earth elements (REE) to prevent misappropriation and limit potential avenues for corruption.
Investigation into REE Mining
Citing an investigation into alleged revenue misappropriation from REE mining last year, Azam said having guidelines in place would prevent such misconduct and limit the potential for corruption. He explained that SOPs are necessary because without them, anyone can mine for REE without permission, which is considered theft.
MACC’s Findings
The MACC investigation into the RM13 million REE mining project in Kedah involved statements from 12 individuals, including officials from Kedah Menteri Besar Inc (MBI). Kedah Menteri Besar Sanusi Nor, who had his statement taken, denied any wrongdoing. He claimed that the REE exploration was mooted by his predecessor, with a Chinese investor spending RM30 million for that purpose. Sanusi’s former political secretary, Hilmi Wahab, was charged with receiving RM400,000 in bribes from companies wanting to obtain mining and exploration permits from the state government.
Finding of Non-Radioactive Rare Earth Elements in Malaysia
Last year, natural resources, environment and climate change minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad announced that the minerals and geoscience department has found 16.1 million tonnes of non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE) in Malaysia with a market value of RM809.6 billion. The department has identified 29 areas with strategic potential for NR-REE in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Sarawak, Selangor, and Terengganu.
MACC Still Probing 1BestariNet
Azam said he could not comment on MACC’s investigation into 1BestariNet, a high-speed internet project offering virtual learning platforms for all government schools. He suggested that the investigation is ongoing and that he is constantly monitoring it.
Future of the Project
As the investigation continues, the future of the 1BestariNet project remains uncertain. Last month, the MACC raided the Kuala Lumpur office of YTL Communications and a government office as part of its investigation into payment claims related to the 1BestariNet service tender. The investigation is centered on claims involving false details related to RM2.7 billion in payments, as well as other criminal elements under the MACC Act 2009.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having SOPs in place for REE mining is crucial to prevent misappropriation and limit potential avenues for corruption. The MACC’s findings on the investigation into the REE mining project in Kedah serve as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the mining industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of establishing SOPs for REE mining?
A: SOPs would prevent misappropriation and limit potential avenues for corruption.
Q: What is the current state of the 1BestariNet project?
A: The project is under investigation by the MACC.
Q: What is the current status of the REE mining project in Kedah?
A: The MACC has concluded its investigation into the project, and those involved have been charged or denied any wrongdoing.