Kerajaan beri fleksibiliti moratorium eksport REE, tarik pelabur berpotensi

Malaysia has agreed to provide flexibility for a moratorium on exports of raw materials of critical rare earth elements (REEs) through the Guideline for Consideration of Applications for Export of Raw Materials of Critical Rare Earth Elements, in an effort to attract potential investors. The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has informed that investors are hesitant to invest due to the lack of a stable supply of raw materials in the country.

According to MITI, the export flexibility is limited to research and development (R&D) activities only. Furthermore, associated companies must demonstrate a clear commitment to cooperate in the development of processing facilities in Malaysia within three years from the date of approval for the export of REE raw materials. The ministry responded to questions from Shaharizukirnain Abd Kadir (PN-Setiu) about the firm commitment of the government in relation to the USD96 million deal between Lynas and the US Pentagon on rare earth oxide, clarifying that the ministry's strategy focuses on attracting domestic and foreign investment to develop and eventually strengthen the middle and downstream segments of the REE industry, particularly in high-tech manufacturing such as permanent magnets, advanced materials, electronic components and batteries.

To achieve Malaysia's aspiration to develop the REE industry, the country needs to leverage strategic partnerships and technology transfer from within the country and its allies, including countries with expertise in REE processing. This step will not only strengthen the local capability to traverse the entire value chain from raw material extraction to final product manufacturing, but will also position Malaysia as a key player in the global supply chain of critical mineral resources.