Diary 314: Rare earth plant project in Malaysia

The rare earth plant project operated by Lynas Corporation Ltd has been established in Gebeng, an industrial site near Kuantan, the capital city of the state of Pahang, Malaysia.

The company was granted a manufacturing license in January 2008 to produce “rare earth oxides and carbonates”.

The subsidiary of the Australia-listed Lynas Corp Ltd has since proceeded to build its plant at Gebeng. It was reported that all the construction was monitored by Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) and the Department of Environment.

International Trade and Industry Minister said that both authorities are satisfied that the company has met all health and safety requirments and standards required.

Since January 2011, there is increasing concern over the safety of the project, especially the health, safety and environmental aspects.

The public now airs their concern through various channels. One of which is Save Malaysia and Stop Lynas movement.

It wants the project “to stop now for the sake of present generations and as well as that of our children’s”.

The Pahang Bar Committee offers its legal support to protesters. Malaysian Bar president urged the Government to value the environment as much as investment.

An independent panel is being established to examine the health and safety issues.

========(Source: The Star 23 April 2011) =================================

Irrespective of the outcome of the report on the health and safety of the plant’s operation, the need to for Malaysia to scrap the project is beyond doubt.

The public’s fear of the negative impacts on safety and health of the residents cannot be overcome with a professional report and reassurance.

We have to learn from world history that no one can assure a 100% safety and health for our beloved Malaysians. Technical errors, human negligence and environmental changes can bring adverse impacts.

Malaysia does not need the economic gain from this form of foreign investment. We can always generate income from other froms of investments, definitely not this one.

Negotiate with Lynas Corporation Ltd, compensate it and let it leaves Malaysia with honour and respect. We hope Lynas Corporation Ltd can understand our feeling and respond positively to this humanistic request.