KUALA LUMPUR: Developments involving the rare earth elements (REE) industry must provide tangible, broad-based benefits to local communities, says Deputy Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh. He said the entire value chain must encompass both upstream and downstream activities, so that producing states are not merely used as mining sites. “They must enjoy economic benefits, attract investment opportunities and foster the growth of supporting industries. He also said the National Minerals Council serves as the main platform to coordinate policies, strategic direction and governance of the minerals sector between the federal and state governments. Syed Ibrahim was responding to a question from Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN–Alor Setar), who asked about strategic engagements between the federal and state governments to ensure the REE industry is developed in line with the spirit of federalism.

Source: The Star February 09, 2026 11:16 UTC