PERLIS DRAFTING STATE MINERAL POLICY - MOHD SHUKRI

KANGAR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The Perlis government, through its Economic Planning Division, is drafting the State Mineral Policy, which will serve as the foundation for the consideration and implementation of mining activities in the state, said Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli.

He said it aligns with the National Mineral Policy, which was presented and approved during the recent National Mineral Council meeting.

"...Perlis dolomite is one of the best mineral resources and often attracts attention. Currently,  the output from this mineral is only in its raw form, not processed to produce downstream products.

"The state government has carefully reviewed this matter and is working to improve the existing policy so that it can benefit from the returns of dolomite mineral resources," he said when winding up the debate on the state's 2025 Budget during the State Legislative Assembly sitting at the DUN Complex here today.

Mohd Shukri said the state government is aware of the potential of dolomite through face-to-face market studies conducted by the Land and Mines Office with clients, potential clients, and stakeholders.

He said the studies have produced clear and comprehensive guidelines for existing and upcoming dolomite concession holders.

"(The guidelines) seek to establish a downstream industry based on dolomite resources. Each appointed concession holder will not only focus on producing raw dolomite but will also be required to produce dolomite downstream products," he said, adding that this will benefit Perlis economically and create job opportunities for the people.

According to him, nine applications for exploration and seven applications for dolomite mining have been evaluated, but only five have the potential to produce high-value downstream products such as pure magnesium ingots and magnesium refractory bricks.

"Eleven applications only intend to produce raw and semi-raw materials, with fertiliser as the downstream product. This situation requires the state government to be more cautious and make careful considerations to ensure that the concession holders can generate more revenue," he said.

Meanwhile, Mohd Shukri said the state government will establish the Perlisku Bestari Strategic Institute, consisting of scholars and strategic thinkers to drive and monitor the 20 initiatives tabled in the 2025 State Budget themed 'Perlisku Bestari Berkat Lestari.'

"The establishment of this institute is crucial to ensure that all initiatives run smoothly and meet the aspirations of the Perlis people," he added.

-- BERNAMA