In a press statement today, Fuziah explained that the ban on bauxite mining would increase the possibility of erosion at the mines.

“Our river and drinking water are at risk of being polluted.

“In fact, health ministry reports have confirmed that there are worrying levels of pollution caused by bauxite mining,” she said.

Fuziah was responding to the announcement that the moratorium on bauxite mining had been extended until March 31.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar had said the moratorium was to allow mining companies to clear their bauxite stockpiles.

However, Wan Junaidi said illegal mining was still taking place as the stockpiles did not appear to be diminishing.

Fuziah regarded the moratorium extension as the government’s attempt to “close one eye” to the mismanagement of the largely unregulated bauxite industry.

“It is also to allow unethical quarters to take advantage of the situation.

“If the ministry is sincere about resolving the bauxite mining crisis in Pahang, then it should clean up the mining waste in the state.

“Clean up the bauxite waste via a third party that does not have a vested interest in the bauxite industry.”

Fuziah reminded the government that it was possible to allow bauxite mining to continue as long as disused mines were rehabilitated and strict standard operating procedures were enforced.

“As long as these mines are not cleaned up and rehabilitated, our lives are at risk.

“Please don’t fool around with the safety and health of 700,000 Kuantan residents.”

According to Wan Junaidi, there were still 2.95 million tonnes of bauxite in the state waiting for export.

The moratorium was implemented last year following public outcry over irreversible environmental pollution caused by rampant bauxite mining in the state.