What specific REE project approvals were allegedly sought via bribery?

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Former Kedah Political Secretary Ordered to Defend Bribery Charges Related to Rare Earth Element Mining Project Approvals

A former political secretary to the Kedah Menteri Besar has been ordered by the Sessions Court to enter his defence on charges of soliciting and accepting bribes. These charges are specifically linked to the alleged facilitation of approvals for rare earth element (REE) mining projects in Kedah. The court found that the prosecution had established a prima facie case, necessitating a defence from the accused.
Solicitation of Bribe for Licence Approvals

Mohamad Hilmi Abdul Wahab, the former political secretary, is accused of soliciting a RM250,000 bribe from a director of REE Mining Group Sdn Bhd. This sum was allegedly sought as an inducement to assist the company in securing approval for its applications for both an REE Mining Licence and an Exploration Licence in Kedah. The alleged solicitation occurred in July 2023.
Acceptance of Bribe for Project Facilitation

Further to the solicitation charge, Mohamad Hilmi also faces a charge of accepting a RM150,000 bribe. This payment was allegedly received from the same director of REE Mining Group Sdn Bhd, for the same purpose of facilitating the company's REE licence applications. The acceptance of this bribe is reported to have taken place approximately a week after the alleged solicitation.
Legal Framework and Next Steps

The charges against Mohamad Hilmi are framed under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009. Conviction under this section carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of no less than five times the bribe amount or RM10,000, whichever is higher. The court has scheduled four days in October to commence the defence proceedings.

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What specific REE project approvals were allegedly sought via bribery?

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