Kota bharu: The complete guidelines and conditions for gold panning activities in Kelantan will be announced after being tabled in the next state exco meeting, said Deputy Menteri Besar, Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan. He noted that the Land and Mines Office (PTG) is currently studying the proposal to ensure that panning activities do not impact the safety of panners and the environment.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposal to grant permission for gold panning activities is still in the review stage and has not been finalized. Dr. Mohamed Fadzli clarified that there might be some confusion regarding previous statements on this matter. He emphasized that while the government has proposed guidelines, these have not yet been implemented. The conditions, guidelines, and other relevant details are still being reviewed and will be presented in the upcoming Exco meeting.
The guidelines aim to regulate panning activities, ensuring they do not compromise public safety or environmental health. Dr. Mohamed Fadzli highlighted that while panning is allowed, the use of certain equipment like mobile machines is regarded as industrial and thus not permitted. Such industrial activities require a license and must adhere to more stringent procedures.
Furthermore, the determination of the gold purchase price, buyers, and monitoring of the number of panners will be coordinated through a licensing system. Dr. Mohamed Fadzli mentioned that the strong interest in panning activities indicates its potential as a new tourism product in Kelantan. However, he refrained from commenting further until the standard operating procedures are officially announced.
He also noted that gold mining involves substantial costs. To date, the state government has issued 20 licenses, with only four companies being active, including one large enterprise. Dr. Mohamed Fadzli encouraged capable local companies, particularly Bumiputera enterprises, to participate in this industry, acknowledging that few currently have the capacity for large-scale mining.