Malaysia has suspended operations at a rare earth mining site and two tin mines in Perak following an investigation into complaints that a section of the Perak River had turned bright blue. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Johari Abdul Ghani told parliament that initial findings linked discharges from MCRE Resources Sdn Bhd’s rare earth site to the discoloration, with radiation readings as high as 13 becquerels—well above the permitted 1 becquerel limit.

Authorities are now examining the types of chemicals used in mining and whether they align with reported environmental practices. The ministry also cited violations by the tin mining companies related to effluent discharge, erosion control, sediment management, and chemical handling. Malaysia, which holds an estimated 16 million tons of rare earth deposits, has been exploring partnerships with China and the U.S. to develop mining and processing capabilities, but environmental concerns have prompted the government to take immediate regulatory action.