KUALA LUMPUR:The Ministry of Environment and Water (KASA) has given its assurance that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the exploration of Rare Earth Elements (REE) in Kedah will be studied professionally and meticulously to ensure environmental sustainability.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said that until now the Department of Environment (DOE) had not received any application for approval of the project’s EIA report.
“The ministry is serious about the significant impact on the environment and recommends that these environmentally sensitive areas be fully protected and preserved to ensure the continuity of the ecosystem for safe water supply, food security, ecosystem protection, flora and fauna,” he said during the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat here today.
He said this in his reply to a question from Nurul Izzah Anwar (PH-Permatang Pauh) who wanted the ministry to state measures to protect Ulu Muda, a raw water source for the needs of 4.2 million people in Kedah, Perlis and Penang from the effects of toxic pollution if the Rare Earth Elements (REE) exploration continues in Kedah which covers an area of 163,000 hectares.
Therefore, he said, KASA as the main agency in ensuring the sustainability of nature and water, would like to emphasis that protecting the environment for the long-term sustainability of ecosystem functions will be be given priority for the well-being of the people and sustainable development of the country.
Meanwhile, Tuan Ibrahim said the Ulu Muda area was a water catchment area for three states, namely Kedah, Perlis and Penang, and the Kedah government has sacrificed a lot by not exploring the area.
“For the record, I have just been given confirmation by the Kedah Menteri Besar who assured me that the water catchment area will not be explored and any logging area previously approved involving water catchment area will be replaced with other areas.
“On the huge sacrifice of the Kedah state government, it would be good if Penang, which has benefited tremendously, can contribute financially to Kedah which has sacrificed for water catchment areas to ensure that the states’ water resources are guaranteed,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Thu Dec 10 2020
Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said that until now the Department of Environment (DOE) had not received any application for approval of the projects EIA report. - Astro AWANI / Shahir Omar
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.