The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today announced that it has found elements of corruption in the bauxite mining activities in Pahang.

The commission said it investigated the matter after receiving numerous complaints about environmental pollution due to the uncontrolled bauxite mining in the state.

"Based on these complaints, MACC found elements of corruption by certain quarters that are involved in the production of bauxite.

"MACC views this matter seriously and will not hesitate to take action under the MACC Act 2009 against those who are involved in corruption and abuse of power.

MACC's public statement came a day after The Malay Mail reported that the graft buster which is in the midst of preparing a report found state authorities overlooked many key areas in bauxite mining activities.

No open tender

The report said, among MACC's findings include that there was no proper criteria on who can apply for a bauxite mining licence, no requirements for those granted a licence to furnish technical reports, and the absence of any open tender.

Bauxite mining in Pahang picked up in 2014 to satisfy China's demand after Indonesia banned exports of the raw material to encourage local aluminium production.

However the indiscriminate mining had caused serious pollution in Kuantan, most visibly turning its rivers and coastal waters red as well as causing distress to local marine life.