Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has urged nuclear-weapon states to sign and ratify the Protocol to the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) Treaty without delay, highlighting its importance for regional peace, mutual trust, and long-term security. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof emphasized the necessity of a strong and enforceable nuclear-weapon-free zone to maintain stability and protect the future of the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the opening of the 12th Annual Meeting of the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (ASEANTOM), Fadillah reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to the SEANWFZ Treaty and called on nuclear-weapon states to expedite the signing and ratification process. He stressed the significance of this protocol as a cornerstone for regional peace and security.
Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, discussed the government's structured assessment of nuclear power as a potential part of Malaysia's future energy mix. This evaluation, in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), aims to diversify energy sources, enhance long-term energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
The Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation (NEPIO), operating under MyPOWER Corporation, is responsible for coordinating preparatory efforts in accordance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to exploring nuclear energy as a viable clean energy option.
In related news, Fadillah announced the forthcoming launch of the Gamma Spectrometry Water Monitoring System (GSWMS) by the Department of Atomic Energy Malaysia under the 12th Malaysia Plan. This technology is designed to improve the country's ability to detect and respond rapidly to radiological threats in water sources.
He further stressed the importance of robust regulatory frameworks, rigorous safety protocols, and transparent international cooperation in the deployment of nuclear energy and advanced technologies. Fadillah highlighted that the cooperation under ASEANTOM is not just technical but deeply strategic, reflecting a shared responsibility to ensure atomic energy contributes to sustainable development, regional stability, and the well-being of future generations.
The two-day meeting brings together regulators from ASEAN member states, the IAEA, and dialogue partners to discuss regional nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.