Kuala lumpur: Public misconceptions about nuclear technology, often linked to safety concerns as well as potential risks to health and the environment, must be addressed to ensure the sustainable growth of the industry in Malaysia. Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal emphasized the importance of reshaping public perceptions through inclusive, transparent communication strategies grounded in scientific evidence.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Mohammad Yusof Apdal highlighted that fostering greater public confidence requires the collective effort of stakeholders, including the government, industry players, academia, and professional bodies. He noted that despite the well-documented benefits of nuclear technology, public concerns over safety and radiation risks persist, posing a significant challenge to advancing this field in Malaysia.
During his speech at the 28th Radiation Protection Conference and Workshop 2025, the Deputy Minister outlined the efforts of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), through the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Department of Atomic Energy Malaysia (Atom Malaysia), to actively engage in awareness and education initiatives. These efforts include strategic collaborations and participation in both national and international academic forums.
He asserted that with a holistic approach and effective communication, the public could come to accept nuclear technology as a strategic national asset, provided it is managed ethically and with the highest safety standards. Mohammad Yusof also pointed out the inevitability of using radiation sources in various sectors such as medical, agricultural, industrial, research, and national security in today's era of advanced technology.
Highlighting the importance of radiation protection, he referred to the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) stance that protecting people and the environment from harmful radiation effects is a shared responsibility. The Deputy Minister noted that Malaysia is strengthening its role in advancing the regional radiation technology safety agenda through the conference, themed "Global Energy Security Through Radiation Safety: Balancing Growth and Protection."
He added that the conference aligns with the nation's development aspirations under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which focuses on the growth of high-value industries, including the energy and water sectors. The event reflects the government's view of nuclear energy as a clean and safe source for future energy needs, with radiation safety remaining a top priority.
The conference brought together over 100 participants, including industrial radiation practitioners, policymakers, academics, and technical experts. Throughout the event, participants engaged in 19 technical paper presentations, forums, workshops, technical visits, and technology exhibitions centered on radiation safety.