Greenpeace Demands Investigation into Malaysia’s Bright Blue River

Environmental organization Greenpeace has called for an investigation into the bright blue coloration of the Sungai Perak, Malaysia’s second-longest river. This unusual phenomenon, observed near recently suspended rare earth and tin mining operations, has raised serious concerns about pollution and the effectiveness of mining oversight in the region. The situation has escalated following alarming visuals of the river, which have captured widespread attention.

On November 21, 2023, Greenpeace highlighted the need for “full transparency and an independent investigation” into the cause of this environmental change. The organization expressed deep concern over the implications of the river turning a striking turquoise color, emphasizing that the decision to suspend mining operations was merely a first step towards addressing the issue.

Natural Resources Minister Johari Abdul Ghani confirmed that an investigation is underway, focusing on the chemicals employed in the treatment processes at a nearby rare earth mine. During a parliamentary session earlier in the week, Johari disclosed that the government had ordered a temporary halt to operations at the rare earth facility and two tin mines for a period of three weeks.

According to Bernama, Malaysia’s national news agency, readings from the rare earths site indicated a radiation level of 13 becquerels, significantly exceeding the one-becquerel limit established in the operation’s environmental impact assessment report. Greenpeace has also urged authorities to assess water quality downstream to further investigate the potential environmental impact of the mining activities.

The blue coloration of the Sungai Perak was first noted approximately a month ago, prompting heightened scrutiny of the regional mining practices. As Malaysia continues to emerge as a significant player in the rare earth mining and processing sector, international interest in its operations is intensifying. In September 2023, U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim formalized a trade agreement to enhance U.S. access to critical minerals, underscoring the geopolitical relevance of Malaysia’s rare earth reserves.

The country is estimated to hold around 16.2 million tonnes of untapped rare earth reserves, with a nationwide moratorium on raw rare earth exports set to take effect on January 1, 2024. This moratorium aims to encourage domestic processing, ensuring that the country can capitalize on its natural resources while adhering to environmental safeguards.

As investigations proceed, the spotlight remains on the balance between economic development and environmental protection in Malaysia’s burgeoning mining industry.