Pahang govt to continue to explain advantages of Lynas rare earth project

By Ong Han Sean, The Star

KUANTAN: Anti-Lynas groups are free to express their displeasure over the rare earth refinery project but the state government also has the responsibility to explain the truth to the public, said Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob.

He said while the state government appreciated the feelings of the groups and respected their freedom of expression, it would continue with its own public explanation exercise to let the people know the project’s advantages.

“They can go around campaigning against the Lynas project and at the same time, we also have the same right to explain to the people that it is not detrimental to their safety and the environment,” Adnan told a press conference at the Halal Transformation Programme here Monday.

Responding to the announcement by the Save Malaysia, Stop Lynas movement that it would set up an international panel to investigate the plant further, Adnan said the state government could do the same and there would be no end to the matter.

“The International Atomic Energy Agency has already given its recommendations. If they still choose not believe the authoritative body, who are they going to trust?” he asked.