Malaysia's Kelantan State to Legalize Small-Scale Gold Panning

Economic Relief for Low-Income Citizens

The Malaysian state of Kelantan is set to legalize small-scale gold panning along its riverbanks through a formal permit system. This move aims to provide an additional source of income for the state's low-income residents, particularly during a time when global gold prices are near their all-time highs. The registration for these permits is scheduled to commence on January 1, allowing individuals to pan for gold manually in designated areas.

Targeting Vulnerable Communities

The initiative specifically targets daily wage workers and those with irregular incomes, who form a significant portion of Kelantan's population. Kelantan is recognized as one of the poorest states in Malaysia, characterized by a predominantly rural demographic and limited industrial base. The state, which has been governed by the opposition Islamic party PAS for an extended period, has previously accused the federal government of neglecting its development needs.

Balancing Economic Benefits and Environmental Concerns

The program, as explained by Nik Raisnan Daud, Director of Lands and Mines in Kelantan, is designed to strike a balance between providing economic assistance and ensuring safety and environmental control. By formalizing gold panning activities, the state aims to regulate the practice and mitigate potential environmental impacts associated with unregulated gold extraction.