The iron core mining project in Jerantut, Pahang runs counter to the vision of protecting the Central Forest Spine (CFS) which was announced by Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in March, said environmental group Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM).

"SAM is shocked to learn about the mining plans in an area in the CFS, which should be protected and not allowed for any mining or other forms of activities," said SAM president Meenakshi Raman.

"When launching the National Forestry Policy earlier this year, the prime minister highlighted the need for states to protect the CFS...