Stop dismissing alleged malpractices in Kedah as mere allegations, Mahdzir tells Sanusi

ALOR SETAR - Caretaker Kedah Menteri Besar should thoroughly investigate any alleged malpractices within the administration and avoid dismissing such them as mere attempts to slander, said Kedah Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid.

He said Pas deliberately played up the narrative claiming that caretaker Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor was slandered over the theft of rare earth elements (REE) in Sik.

Mahdzir further said the Menteri Besar Corporation (MBI) was charged a compound for being involved in the incident.

"That is why Sanusi should clarify every allegation, including the questions raised by the Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution to give an accurate picture of the issue.

"Saifuddin's statement comes with documents that support the questions raised. He has the facts. So there is no defamation," he said in a press conference, here.

Mahdzir made these remarks in response to Kedah Pas Commissioner Datuk Ahmad Yahaya who criticised the action of several ministers, including Saifuddin, for allegedly defaming Sanusi with the intention of tarnishing the reputation of the Kedah Menteri Besar.

This follows Saifuddin's disclosure over MBI Kedah being fined for its alleged involvement in the theft of rare earth elements (REE).

Prior to that, Saifuddin had also disclosed that the state government allocated a portion of the road maintenance allocation (MARIS) for state development.

Mahdzir said as a former Kedah Menteri Besar all parties involved must adhere to SOPs before obtaining approval for mining activities.

"I am aware that all types of mining require approval from the District Land Office. Before receiving approval, the mining project must meet the criteria and SOP set for mining activities," he said.

The Environment Department is one of the agencies to get approval from.

"If the conditions are met, it signifies that mining can proceed. However, the situation in Bukit Enggang remains unclear," he added.

Mahdzir said if Pas accuses the state government or Sanusi of defamation, they should pursue legal action or file a police report for investigation.

"The state government should respond to all the allegations. The people want to know the truth about what really transpired," he added.