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The Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC) refuted allegations by Kedah Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md. Nor, that the Federal Government delayed the release of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for rare earth element (REE) mining. The ministry confirmed that the SOPs were distributed to all state governments on December 20, 2023. The comprehensive guidelines cover technical aspects, environmental compliance, mine rehabilitation, and export regulations, allowing states to adapt implementation according to their respective laws. The ministry clarified that REE mining is prohibited in Permanent Reserved Forests, Environmentally Sensitive Areas, and protected reserve areas.
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