IPOH, Oct 1 (Bernama) - The Minerals and Geoscience Department’s Mineral Research Centre is leading efforts to develop sustainable extraction and waste treatment technologies for rare earth elements (REE) from local sources.

Deputy secretary-general (Natural Resources) at the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), Datuk Mas Rizal Mohd Hilmi, said the project titled ‘Development of Waste Treatment Technology from Non-Radioactive REE Processing Plants’ began last year and is expected to be completed in 2026.

“The project focuses on developing eco-friendly waste treatment methods for REE processing, alongside exploring extraction techniques such as in-situ leaching and solvent-based recovery from secondary sources like metal mine effluents,” he noted.

He made the remarks during his keynote address at the 11th Mineral Symposium (Simpomin 2025) held here today. JMG Director-General Datuk Zamri Ramli was also present.

Mas Rizal highlighted NRES’s commitment to research and development (R&D) and innovation in mineral processing, product development, mine waste management and the integration of renewable energy in mining operations.

“This includes employing digital systems, online monitoring and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and geographic information systems (GIS) for mineral resource mapping,” he added.

He also emphasised the importance of cultivating skilled professionals with technical expertise, integrity and a visionary outlook to support ongoing research and training initiatives in mineralogy.

“Continuous investment in research and technical capacity building remains a priority for the ministry,” he said.