MACC finds graft in Pahang bauxite mining

(Malay Mail Online) – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) said today that it has uncovered corruption in bauxite mining in Pahang amid a boom in the industry that has seen rivers and seas turn red near Kuantan.

The anti-graft agency said it has received plenty of complaints about environmental pollution as a result of uncontrolled bauxite mining in Pahang.

“Based on those complaints, the MACC has found elements of corruption done by certain parties involved in the production of bauxite,” the MACC said in a statement.

“The MACC takes this seriously and will not hesitate to take action against those involved in the crime of corruption and abuse of power under the MACC Act 2009,” it added.

Putrajaya announced earlier today a three-month moratorium on bauxite mining in Pahang from January 15, amid concerns over the health and environmental impact of the mining industry for the aluminium ingredient.

International news wire Reuters reported last month that Malaysia shipped more than 20 million tonnes of bauxite to China in the first 11 months of last year, up nearly 700 per cent on 2014. In 2013, Malaysia reportedly shipped just 162,000 tonnes.