Malaysia reinforces role in radiation tech safety
Published on: Tue, Aug 19, 2025
By: Crystal E Hermenegildus, Samantha Sulit Text Size: Yusof in a group photo with the participants. Kota Kinabalu: Malaysia continues to reinforce its role in the regional radiation technology safety agenda through the 28th Radiation Protection Conference and Workshop 2025 (RPCW 2025). Themed 'Global Energy Security Through Radiation Safety: Balancing Growth and Protection', the conference underscores radiation safety as a fundamental pillar in ensuring global energy sustainability and resilience.
Advertisement Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal stressed that radiation safety is not optional but essential in all nuclear technology applications across the medical, industrial, research and security sectors. 'In today's modern era, the use of radiation sources is unavoidable, whether in medicine, agriculture, industry, research or national security. 'That is why radiation protection must remain central to ensuring these applications are safely regulated without harming people or the environment,' he said when officiating the conference, here, Monday. Yusof admitted public perception of nuclear technology remains one of the major challenges despite its proven benefits. 'Concerns over safety and radiation risks persist. It is our joint responsibility – government, industry, academia and professional bodies – to correct this perception through inclusive, transparent and science-based communication,' he said. The event gathered 120 participants, including industry practitioners, policymakers, academics and technical experts, jointly organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) through the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Malaysian Radiation Protection Association (Marpa), with support from the Atomic Energy Department. RPCW 2025 aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan's (RMK13) focus on high-value industries such as energy and water. With nuclear energy being considered as a clean and safe future energy option, radiation safety remains the nation's top priority. Yusof also urged industries to fully support Radiation Protection Officers (RPOs) and Licence Holders (OBTLs), who play a frontline role in enforcing safety standards. 'They are not only enforcers but leaders in risk management, monitoring and safety culture development within their organisations,' he said, calling for continuous training, adequate resources and proper recognition of their responsibilities. According to the Malaysia Atomic Report 2023, the nation recorded over 31,000 radiation workers and nearly 2,000 active licences without a single radiological incident – a testament to Malaysia's regulatory efficiency and industry professionalism. Radiation workers also contribute economic value, supporting the high-value medical ecosystem and strengthening the oil and gas sector through non-destructive testing (NDT) that ensures quality, reduces accidents and enhances competitiveness. As Asean Chair 2025, Malaysia is committed to advancing regional cooperation in radiation safety, radioactive material management and nuclear emergency preparedness through platforms such as the Asean Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (Aseantom), Asean Nuclear Power Safety Research (NPSR) and Asean Nuclear Leaders for Energy Transition (ANLET). 'This is the best time for Malaysia to showcase leadership in developing safe and responsible nuclear technology at the regional level,' Yusof said. Mosti, through the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Atomic Energy Department, remains committed to strengthening skilled manpower via industry-academia collaboration and training to ensure radiation technology in Malaysia is always safe, ethical and sustainable. RPCW 2025 is expected to serve as a catalyst for new initiatives, scientific discoveries and strategic collaborations, further enhancing knowledge, skills and networks among radiation practitioners and policymakers in Malaysia and across Asean. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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