KUBANG PASU: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution says he is not bothered by Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor's threat to file another legal suit against him for exposing issues related to the rare earth elements theft in Kedah.
However, Saifuddin, who is also Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, stressed that the caretaker Kedah menteri besar should explain his connection with China citizen So Loi Fat, who is sought by authorities over the theft in Sik district.
"I have proof of Sanusi's letter to the minister (then Home minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin) regarding the working pass application on behalf of So Loi Fat.
"If he wishes to sue me, so be it but do ask him (about the letter)," Saifuddin said in a press conference in Jitra here today.
Yesterday, Sanusi warned Saifuddin that he would file another suit should the latter continue to link him with the facilitation of So's entry into the country.
It was reported that Sanusi had reiterated that So had already been in the country even before he was appointed as menteri besar in 2020.
In the press conference today, Saifuddin asked Sanusi to explain why he did not take action despite having knowledge of the theft.
Saifuddin has revealed photos of Sanusi visiting the site in Bukit Enggang Forest Reserve in Sik in on Feb 19, 2022.
"In February 2023, Sanusi personally visited the alleged illegal mining site. However, there was no serious action taken since his visit.
"Furthermore, the (caretaker) menteri besar's denial of the incident has raised serious concerns on transparency and accountability.
"This is a serious matter as it has a direct impact on the state and the people in Kedah," he said.
Saifuddin also reiterated his argument on why the state Land and Mines Office (PTG) director had failed to open an investigation into the incident until today.
"The state PTG director holds an important position on the Kedah MBI (Menteri Besar Incorporated) board of advisors.
"He or his representative is also a member of the state Mineral Resources Committee, the authority responsible for investigating related to the Kedah Mineral Enactment 2004.
"We have studied all the regulations under the enactment," Saifuddin said, adding that it is baffling that no investigation has been opened into the illegal mining and continuous theft at Bukit Enggang Forest Reserve.
"The people in Sik and Kedah deserve to get a firm assurance that their natural resources are protected and that stern action will be taken against those involved.
"The economic benefits from rare earth elements mining should be channelled back to the state, the country and the people to ensure fair and equal distribution," he said.