Kerajaan beri fleksibiliti moratorium eksport REE, tarik pelabur berpotensi

Malaysia accords flexibility to moratorium on exports of rare earth primary materials (REE) via the Guidelines for Consideration of Applications for Raw REE Exports, aiming to attract potential investors, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti). Miti informs that REE investors are hesitant to invest due to the lack of assurance for a stable supply of raw materials in the country.

The flexibility in exports is limited to research and development (R&D) activities. Moreover, associated companies must demonstrate a clear commitment to collaborate in establishing processing facilities in Malaysia within three years from the approval of export REE, Miti explains. Responding to a question from Shaharizukirnain Abd Kadir (PN-Setiu) regarding the firm determination of the government concerning the USD96 million agreement between Lynas and the U.S. Pentagon on rare earth oxides, Miti emphasizes that the ministry's strategy focuses on attracting domestic and foreign investment to develop and subsequently enhance the middle and downstream REE industry, particularly in high-technology items such as permanent magnets, advanced materials, electronic components, and batteries.

To achieve Malaysia's aspiration of developing the REE industry, the country must leverage strategic cooperation and technology transfer from within the country and its allies, including experienced allies in REE processing. This step will not only strengthen local capabilities to cover the entire value chain, from mining to final product manufacturing, but also position Malaysia as a key player in the global supply chain of critical mineral resources.