KUALA LUMPUR: The new bauxite-mining scheme being finalised by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry will provide better protection for the people and environment, as well as ensure sustainability of the industry.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, told the New Straits Times that at least three areas of control would regulate the sector, which last year drew the wrath of Kuantan folk for the environmental pollution it caused, partly due to poor regulation of the industry.
Now, industry players will have to, among others, observe the port’s export capacity, the mining operators’ production abilities and the Federal Government’s issuance of Approval Permits (APs).
“It had been predicted that the bauxite-mining industry would last between two and three years,” Wan Junaidi said.
“However, with the implementation of the scheme, the industry could sustain itself for up to four years.
“The scheme will include strict control of bauxite extraction, which must be in accordance with the port’s capacity, which is about three million tonnes per month. The number of APs will also be based on mining operators’ production capabilities,” he said, adding that the Minerals and Geoscience Department will ascertain the production capabilities of each acreage.
Wan Junaidi said the public could expect to see less pollution and fewer lorries on the road carrying a reduced amount of bauxite.
As for the lorries transporting the red dirt from mining sites to the central stockpiling area in Kuantan, Wan Junaidi said the ministry had a specific look in mind for them.
“We have decided on the design. My secretary-general made the suggestion and we are waiting for feedback from the Transport Ministry.
“We want the lorries to be fully closed. It would be better if they had metal storage compartments.
“However, if they can prove that wooden storage compartments are just as able to secure dirt and prevent spills or windblown dust, then we will accommodate them.”
Enclosed lorries, he said, would also prevent drivers from overloading their vehicles.
“Previously, they used canvas to close their storage compartment, so they could carry more cargo.
“But with fully enclosed lorries, we don’t even need weighing machines and can estimate the volume of the minerals based on the size of the lorry,” he said, adding that the process would be more streamlined.
Wan Junaidi said his ministry also recommended to the transport ministry that it introduce heftier penalties against errant lorry drivers.
“The Road Transport Department has to relook the compound rate. These lorry drivers are willing to pay the fines because they earn more from the lucrative business.
“They don’t mind paying the compound now. But they will think twice about it after this if they don’t want to risk having their lorries confiscated.”
Wan Junaidi also instructed his ministry to review the Operating Mining Scheme to include a more comprehensive guideline.
“The guideline focuses on bauxite mining’s impact on the environment. It does not emphasise on cleaning bays and lorries.
“We have learnt from our experience, so we will review the regulations set by the Minerals and Geoscience Department.”
The ministry would also discuss a bauxite taxation system with the relevant agencies, he said.
“We will discuss the issue with the Economic Planning Unit, Finance Ministry and Customs Department.
“We need to make sure that every tonne that goes on the ships will be taxed.
“The state and federal governments must get something, because we are doing the cleaning and enforcement.”
For this reason as well, he said the government would look into increasing the selling price of the mineral.
“Our selling price is among the lowest of the 12 bauxite-producing countries. This is a concern as we (Federal Government) are not compensated for the enforcement efforts and cleaning-up,” he said.