By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The operations of three mining companies in the state have been suspended after they were found to have violated the approval letter for the Mining Operation Scheme (SKSPM).
The directive was issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) through the Minerals and Geoscience Department Malaysia (JMG).
The three companies involved in tin mining are Asiatic Mine Sdn. Bhd./Nalidah Tin Mine Sdn. Bhd., Rahman Hydraulic Tin Sdn. Bhd., and Rare Earth Carbonate (REC), Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation/MCRE Resources Sdn. Bhd.
NRES, in a statement, said the action followed inspection findings and water quality sampling by JMG at several mining areas in Hulu Perak.
The measure was taken in response to complaints of pollution in Sungai Rui, Sungai Kijang, Sungai Kepayang and Sungai Perak.
“The investigation found non-compliance with conditions set by the department related to effluent discharge, erosion and sediment control, as well as chemical usage management.
“JMG has enforced a temporary suspension order on mining operations for several operators in accordance with the powers provided,” the statement said.
NRES stressed that it is responsible for ensuring all tin mining and rare earth element (REE) activities are carried out properly.
