Kuala lumpur: Nuclear technology in Malaysia needs to advance not only in technical aspects but also through greater public understanding and acceptance of its benefits so it can bring a positive impact to the country’s social, economic and environmental development. Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia) director-general Dr Muhammad Rawi Mohamed Zin said the agency’s focus is to ensure that nuclear technology continues to progress and deliver tangible benefits to the people.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Muhammad Rawi expressed a desire for the public to experience the benefits of nuclear technology seamlessly. He noted that while technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and electric vehicles have gained swift public acceptance, nuclear technology still grapples with negative perceptions.
Dr Muhammad Rawi highlighted that the stigma surrounding nuclear technology often arises from historical events like Hiroshima and Fukushima. Despite these associations, he emphasized that the technology is now safer and extensively used across various sectors. He pointed out that Japan, despite its history with nuclear incidents, has continued to embrace nuclear technology alongside other advanced technologies.
He identified two primary challenges in developing nuclear energy in Malaysia: high construction costs and long development timelines, as well as the need to overcome public acceptance issues. To address these concerns, a special task force has been established to engage with the public and communicate the benefits of nuclear technology.
Dr Muhammad Rawi stressed the importance of developing a local workforce of professionals and industry players to support nuclear energy development. He advocated for early identification and training of these individuals and the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem in line with the national nuclear energy programme.
The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry and the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry have been tasked with developing the legal and regulatory framework for the implementation of nuclear energy in Malaysia. The country is also a signatory to international treaties such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).
In ensuring safety, the Radionuclide Monitoring Station (RN42) in Cameron Highlands, operated by CTBT and Nuklear Malaysia, plays a crucial role in detecting any nuclear explosions or tests abroad. Dr Muhammad Rawi emphasized that all nuclear technology applications in Malaysia must adhere to strict safety laws and procedures.
He cited the successful use of radioisotopes in medicine, benefiting thousands of cancer patients annually, and the application of nuclear gauges in the oil and gas industry, operated exclusively by licensed personnel, as evidence of the safe and beneficial use of nuclear technology.