REE issue has no connection to state polls - Saifuddin

ALOR SETAR - The investigation into the theft of rare earth elements (REE) at Bukit Enggang, Sik, will not be halted regardless of the outcome of the state polls on Aug 12.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the investigation is not related to the state election.

"The investigation into this case by the government or state agencies will continue without a doubt because it is impossible to complete the investigation within these 12 days.

"So, this is not an election issue; it is an issue of incompetence and weak governance by the menteri besar in managing the state government," he said.

Saifuddin accused the caretaker Kedah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, of being ineffective in governing the state government, leading to the theft of REEs at Bukit Enggang.

He claimed that Sanusi also seemed to have allowed the theft of REEs to occur right in front of his eyes.

He said that the Perikatan Nasional National Election Director also failed to explain to the people the questions that arise regarding the theft.

"Does he (Sanusi) want the people of Kedah to believe that the theft of REEs that has been happening for nearly two years was carried out by an external party without the involvement of the Chief Minister or his associates? "He must come forward, take responsibility, and provide answers to all the questions related to this issue," he said at a media conference here on Sunday.

Saifuddin said ineffective governance not only affects the state government but also tarnishes the country's image when issues of human trafficking are also raised in connection with the theft of REEs.

"So, his action of not addressing these concerning issues shows his incompetence in handling the problems that occur in Kedah.

"Don't treat this issue lightly as if it is an isolated incident or an issue played during the election season because it involves national security," he said.