KOTA BARU: Three districts in Kelantan have been identified as having non-radioactive rare earth elements (NR-REE) worth RM125 billion.
The districts are Tanah Merah, Gua Musang and Jeli.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the areas for the NR-REE in the three districts were about 2,050 sq km.
He said about 1,000 km sq of the elements were found in Aring, Gua Musang while the rest in Stong near Batu Melintang, Jeli (800 km sq) and Tanah Merah (250 km sq).
"Today, l would like to announce some good news for Kelantan. The state has the potential of having NR-REE of more than 2.5 million tonnes worth about RM125 billion.
"Based on the research carried out by the Mineral and Geoscience Department, the NR-REE are in the three districts and estimated value is based on the average price of REE which is US$12 per kg," he said.
Takiyuddin told this to reporters after Stong geopark was recognised as a national geopark here today.
Also present was Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Yakob.
Takiyuddin said his ministry has prepared the standard operating procedure (SOP) for the state government.
"We hope this new potential will benefit the state and its people, as well as help to strengthen the economy," he added.
Tajiyuddin said the ministry would cooperate with the state government by providing exploration mining licences, service advice and others necessities.
Ahmad said the state government via its special committee are identifying the exact location of the NR-REE.
"We have taken all the necessary preparation and will take the next move soon," he added.
On the geopark, Takiyuddin said the Stong national geopark was the eighth in the country.
"The others includes the Lembah Kinta geopark, Lenggong geopark and Jerai geopark.
"What is special about the Stong geopark is the Jelawang waterfall which is recognised as the highest in Southeast Asia," he added.