Latest news with #MuhammadSanusi
Malay Mail
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Federal govt not delaying REE mining SOP, says Nik Nazmi
PUTRAJAYA, May 19 — Claims that the federal government is delaying the release of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for rare earth elements (REE) mining are unfounded, said Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. In a statement today, he said the SOP had been completed and distributed to all state governments via a letter dated Dec 20, 2023. The document outlines detailed guidelines on technical processes, environmental compliance, mine rehabilitation, and export controls. 'It serves as a comprehensive reference based on existing legislation, designed to help state governments adapt implementation in accordance with their own legal frameworks. 'As such, any delays or obstacles at the state level should not be attributed solely to the federal government,' he said. The statement was issued in response to Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor's allegation that the federal government was intentionally withholding the SOP to hinder the progress of of Perikatan Nasional-led states under the SG4 alliance. Nik Nazmi reiterated that REE mining is strictly prohibited in permanent forest reserves, environmentally sensitive areas, and designated protection zones. 'However, mining outside these areas may proceed, subject to compliance with applicable policies, laws, and guidelines,' he said. Addressing claims that an exploration SOP has yet to be released, he clarified that exploration activities fall under state jurisdiction. 'For instance, in Kedah, these provisions are already set out under the Kedah Mineral Enactment 2004 through the issuance of prospecting and exploration licences,' he said. Nik Nazmi also dismissed allegations that the federal government is deliberately obstructing state-level development. He affirmed the government's commitment to fostering a mineral sector that is both economically beneficial and environmentally sustainable, for the long-term benefit of all states and future generations. 'It is crucial for all parties, especially state leaders, to base their arguments on facts and avoid politicising natural resource policies. 'What the people truly need is stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to drive meaningful development,' he added. — Bernama
Malay Mail
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Putrajaya rejects Kedah MB's charge of REE mining obstruction, says states responsible for implementation
KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 — The federal government has rejected Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor's claim that it is deliberately delaying rare earth mining guidelines to hinder the progress of SG4 states. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad stated that the claim is baseless and had already been addressed publicly in October last year. He said the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for rare earth element (REE) mining were finalised and sent to all state governments on 20 December 2023. The SOP includes detailed guidance on technical procedures, environmental compliance, site rehabilitation and export controls. 'The SOP that is being referred to is a comprehensive reference document based on existing legislation,' said Nik Nazmi, adding that states are expected to adapt it according to their own laws. Any delays or constraints in implementation at the state level should not be blamed solely on the federal government, the minister added. He also stressed that REE mining is prohibited in permanent forest reserves, environmentally sensitive areas and designated protection zones. However, mining activities may proceed in other areas if they comply with national laws and environmental guidelines. On the matter of exploration, Nik Nazmi clarified that 'this activity falls under the jurisdiction of the State Government' and is already covered under Kedah's Mineral Enactment 2004. The minister then urged all parties 'not to use natural resource policy as a political tool,' calling instead for stronger cooperation between federal and state governments.
Malay Mail
15-05-2025
- Malay Mail
Vape sales to end in Kedah as state cracks down on drug-linked misuse, says Sanusi
ALOR SETAR, May 15 — Kedah will not renew licenses for electronic cigarettes or vapes in the state, citing concerns about their potential misuse for drug abuse. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said during the state-level Drug Eradication Action Council meeting yesterday that discussions also centred on the use of vape devices for synthetic drug abuse. 'Some individuals are exploiting the situation by selling synthetic drugs in liquid form that can be inhaled using vape devices. Preventing vape sales is one way to curb drug abuse,' he said after chairing the State Executive Council meeting at Wisma Darul Aman here today. It was reported that Perlis will ban the sale of electronic cigarettes or vapes starting August 1. Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli said the decision was based on the Perlis State Fatwa Committee ruling, which declared vape use as haram (prohibited) in 2022. Meanwhile, Muhammad Sanusi said a complete ban on vape sales in the state cannot be implemented hastily to avoid potential legal issues. 'Existing licenses must expire first because there have been prior court cases on other matters. We were warned about possible legal loopholes that might be overlooked, leading to lawsuits,' he said. He added that the state government aims to enforce a complete ban on vape sales, including in convenience stores, by next year, once all licenses are no longer renewed. He added that Kedah will continue intensifying anti-drug efforts at the district level with the cooperation of District Officers, District Police Chiefs, and National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) officers. Muhammad Sanusi said that drug abuse has become a 'wound' and cancer in society, and it must be treated urgently to prevent more severe consequences in the future. — Bernama
