Kota bharu: The Kelantan government has recently approved the standard operating procedures (SOP) for gold panning licence applications, with the process expected to commence early next year. Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Mohamed Fadzli Hassan announced the decision following a state executive council meeting chaired by Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud. The SOP approval aligns with Section 28 of the State Mineral Enactment 2001.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Fadzli highlighted that the current flood season renders it unsuitable for gold panning activities. He assured that the government would announce the opening of applications, anticipated for early next year. Prospective applicants must submit their applications directly at the Land and Mines Office (PTG).

A fee of RM100 will be charged annually for each application, with licences requiring yearly renewals. The licences are non-transferable and exclusively available to Kelantan residents. Gold panning will be permitted from 8 am to 6 pm on government land designated for the activity. Environmental regulations will be implemented to mitigate risks such as riverbank collapses.

Gold obtained through panning must be sold to state-recognized buyers, who must also secure a licence from the PTG and remit royalties to the state government. Additionally, the age criteria for engaging in gold panning will be reviewed, and activities during the monsoon season will be prohibited.

Mohamed Fadzli emphasized that the new SOP aims to safeguard the interests of both panners and gold buyers while ensuring environmental sustainability.