REE: MACC urged to probe Takiyuddin - Mahadzir

ALOR SETAR - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is urged to gather evidence on former Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan in relation to the theft of rare earth elements (REE) in Bukit Enggang, Sik.

Yayasan Jariah Malaysia chairman Mahadzir Abdul Hamid said this is because he was the minister responsible for the handling of the mineral issue at the time and the activity was believed to have transpired during that time.

It is also in line with the declaration made by caretaker Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who announced the discovery of the mineral and planned to explore REE.

"At the time (August 2021 to October 2022), the former Pas minister (Takiyuddin) and Sanusi were certainly in contact with the objective of exploring REE (before the government transition)." "It is not impossible that he has relevant information that can be submitted to the MACC to facilitate the investigation that is currently being carried out," he said in a press statement issued here on Sunday.

Mahadzir, who is also a former Jeneri state assemblyman, said there are several allegations circulating on social media linking the Kelantan Pas leaders to a REE firm.

"After a little research, we were able to identify the link. My question is whether a former minister from the PAS leadership is involved in the REE issue in Kedah, as he is alleged to be involved in the REE issue in Kelantan," he asked.

Even though the investigation is ongoing, he believes that any new information or allegations should be examined.