Iron Ore Mining Process in Malaysia
Malaysia has historically been a notable producer of iron ore, with deposits primarily located in states such as Pahang, Johor, Perak, and Terengganu. The mining process involves several stages, from exploration to extraction and processing. Here’s an overview of the key steps in Malaysia’s iron ore mining operations:
1. Exploration and Site Assessment
Before mining begins, geological surveys are conducted to identify viable iron ore deposits. Techniques such as magnetic surveys, drilling, and sampling help determine the quality (grade) and quantity of the ore. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are also carried out to ensure sustainable practices.
2. Land Clearing and Preparation
Once a site is approved, vegetation is cleared, and infrastructure (roads, power supply, water access) is established. This phase includes setting up facilities for workers and equipment storage.
3. Extraction Methods
Malaysia primarily uses two methods for iron ore extraction:
– Open-Pit Mining: Suitable for shallow deposits (e.g., Bukit Besi in Terengganu). Heavy machinery like excavators and bulldozers removes overburden (topsoil/rock) to expose the ore.
– Dredging: Applied in alluvial deposits (e.g., along rivers). Sand pumps or dredgers extract ore mixed with sediment from riverbeds or coastal areas.
4. Crushing and Screening
Extracted ore undergoes primary crushing to break large rocks into smaller fragments. Screening separates high-grade ore from waste material (gangue). Magnetic separation may be used if the ore contains magnetite.
5. Beneficiation (Optional)
Low-grade ores may undergo beneficiation to increase iron content through processes like washing, gravity separation, or flotation before being pelletized or sintered for industrial use.
6. Transportation
Processed ore is transported via trucks or conveyor belts to ports (e.g., Kuantan Port) for export—mainly to China, India, and Japan—or shipped domestically to steel mills like those operated by Perwaja Steel.
7. Rehabilitation
Post-mining land rehabilitation is mandatory under Malaysian law to restore ecosystems through reforestation or repurposing mined areas for agriculture/tourism projects like Malaysia’s Lembah Beringin eco-park initiative following decades of mining activity there earlier this century when demand