by AFIQ AZIZ / pic by MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

THE government has allocated RM87.2 million to develop a more sustainable mineral industry which is estimated at RM4.11 trillion in the 12th Malaysia Plan, spanning over the next five years.

Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah (picture) said the allocation will be parked at the Minerals and Geoscience Department Malaysia.

He said the money will be used to evaluate the country’s mineral resources; develop an integrated mining and quarry monitoring system; and certification processes on the use of sustainable development indicators in commercialising the mineral products.

“The ministry is responsible for ensuring the mineral resources are managed efficiently and responsibly.

“The main agenda will be emphasised on the principles of accountability and sustainability in handling the mining works, the exploration, processing, and production of mineral-based products,” he said in his welcoming address at the launch of the National Mineral Industry Transformation Plan 2020-2030 framework in Putrajaya today.

Shamsul Anuar stressed that while the mineral resources can be used to generate wealth-income to the nation, it was seen as an industry that has a harmful impact on the environment.

“With this agenda, it is important to ensure that while the activities carried out from the industry will benefit the people, they will not negatively impact the environment,” he added.

Shamsul Anuar said of the total RM4.11 trillion, it was estimated that RM1.03 trillion is for metals, RM2.96 for non-metals, and RM120 billion for minerals from energy.