(Kuching, 30th) There is a need for a careful and detailed study of the mining industry to ensure it does not harm the environment.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari stated this in relation to the extraction of minerals such as non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE), of which Sarawak is one of the Malaysian states possessing such mineral resources.
“I believe this type of mining needs to be studied because it affects the environment.”
Abang Johari said, considering Sarawak has industries like the green economy, why must we venture into the mining industry.
“Unless we are desperate, but we Sarawakians are not. We have other sources of income, so we do not pursue this mining industry and instead preserve it.”
He said this in response to being interviewed after attending the groundbreaking ceremony for Sarawak Moral Uplifting Society Tzi-Hsia Pavilion’s Kidney Foundation Medical and Commercial Building project today.
It is understood that Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah had once mentioned that Sarawak is identified to possess various valuable minerals, estimated to be worth RM1.25 trillion.
Valuable mineral materials include gold, non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE), high-quality silica sand, and bauxite.