Fadillah chairs the National Mineral Council meeting, attended by Awang Tengah (at table, fifth left), Arthur (front, second right) and other key state and federal officials.
KUCHING (July 28): The federal government has been urged to increase the financial allocation for mineral resource exploration in Sarawak, in view of the current funding not reflecting the vast land area and significant mineral potential in the state.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan raised the matter during the National Mineral Council meeting at the Parliament building in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.
The session was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof.
In a statement from Awang Tengah’s office, the Sarawak government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to developing the state’s mineral sector by allocating RM15 million under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and a further RM18 million under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for geological and mineral resource studies.
In comparison, Awang Tengah said the federal government allocated only RM1.36 million for Sarawak under 12MP, and RM1.91 million under 13MP.
“The disparity in funding should be addressed to ensure comprehensive mineral exploration and facilitate the sustainable development of Sarawak’s mineral resources, which are expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth and strategic mineral supply,” said Awang Tengah, who represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the meeting.
He also called upon the federal government to increase its allocation for mineral resource studies in Sarawak to a level comparable with those distributed to other states.
He pointed out that Johor received RM6.5 million for similar purposes, while Sabah, Perak and Kedah each received RM4.5 million.
“Increased federal funding would strengthen geological mapping and mineral exploration efforts, allowing for a more accurate assessment of Sarawak’s mineral resources while supporting future investment and downstream industrial development,” said Awang Tengah.
The National Mineral Council meeting also discussed the development of the national mineral industry, including efforts to strengthen cooperation between the federal and state governments in ensuring the sustainable and strategic management of the country’s mineral resources.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup was also present.
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