Can Perak safely explore rare earth minerals despite past disaster?

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Perak Mentri Besar Incorporated (MBI) is assessing the safety of rare earth mineral exploration, acknowledging past radioactive incidents.

Perak Mentri Besar Incorporated (MBI) is currently in the preliminary exploration phase for rare earth minerals, a process focused on determining the complete safety of any potential mining activities. This initiative acknowledges the historical radioactive disaster at Bukit Merah but aims to proceed cautiously, engaging with experts and state agencies to prevent a recurrence. The exploration seeks to understand the presence and viability of materials like lanthanide in Perak as a potential revenue stream for the state.
Safety Assessment Underway for Rare Earth Exploration

MBI CEO Anuar Zainal Abidin confirmed that the current memorandum of understanding (MoU) is strictly for exploring the safety of rare earth activities, not for actual mining. This approach is a direct response to the historical context of radioactive waste issues, notably the legacy of the Asian Rare-Earth (ARE) plant in Bukit Merah. The focus is on ensuring that any future operations, if deemed safe, can be undertaken without endangering residents or the environment.
Acknowledging and Learning from Past Incidents

The exploration is being conducted with a keen awareness of the Bukit Merah radioactive disaster. Anuar Zainal Abidin stated that MBI is working closely with state agencies and the Water, Land and Natural Resources Ministry (KATS) to learn from past events. The intention is to conduct in-depth research and consult with experts to establish robust safety protocols, ensuring that any potential risks associated with materials like thorium and uranium, previously found in waste facilities, are thoroughly understood and mitigated.
Concerns Raised Regarding Environmental and Health Risks

Environmental watchdog Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) has voiced significant concerns regarding the potential for rare earth mining to endanger residents. SAM president Meenakshi Raman highlighted the existence of a radioactive waste facility in the Kledang Range, containing thorium and uranium from the former ARE plant. SAM argues that mining waste can remain radioactive for billions of years, posing substantial long-term risks that must be carefully considered before any mining proceeds.
Collaboration and Cautious Progression Planned

MBI has indicated a willingness to collaborate with SAM on this matter, acknowledging the importance of their concerns. Anuar Zainal Abidin stressed that MBI will not proceed with any mining activities if the research indicates it is not safe. This commitment to a cautious, expert-driven approach underscores the administration's intent to balance potential economic benefits with stringent environmental and public health safeguards, learning from the sensitive history of rare earth processing in the region.

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Can Perak safely explore rare earth minerals despite past disaster?

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