40 Years Of Atom Malaysia: Leader In Regulating Nation's Nuclear Activities
By Muhammad Adil Muzaffar Mohd Fisol
SEPANG, April 30 (Bernama) -- As it marks its 40th anniversary, the Department of Atomic Energy (Atom Malaysia) is ready to step up its role as the national regulator of nuclear energy and ionising radiation, driving the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology in the country.
Its director-general Noraishah Pungut said Atom Malaysia initially focused on regulating radioactive materials. Today, its role has expanded to include nuclear safety, radiation protection, and the peaceful application of nuclear technology - in line with the growing and diverse use of atomic energy in Malaysia.
'Currently, we oversee over 2,000 active licences covering major industries such as oil and gas exploration, manufacturing, and research and medical institutions. These are regulated in collaboration with the Health Ministry (MOH) under Act 304.
'These activities involve high-risk materials or equipment that must be legally and effectively regulated, in accordance with international best practices to ensure safety, security, and proper usage.
'For example, hospitals seeking to use radiotherapy or companies wanting to import materials like iridium must obtain approval and comply with Atom Malaysia's strict standards,' she told Bernama in a recent interview held in conjunction with the department's 40th anniversary.
Noraishah said many people may not realise that nuclear technology is already widely used in Malaysia, from cancer treatment and crop research to engineering inspections, all of which rely on ionising radiation.
One of Atom Malaysia's key missions now, she said, is to raise public awareness about how the government regulates this technology, to help shift negative perceptions often linked to the term 'nuclear'.
'We need to rebrand nuclear technology. It's not about bombs or disasters - it's clean and efficient technology, as long as it's properly managed. Atom Malaysia plays a key role in enforcing legal controls to ensure safety, security and responsible use,' she stressed.
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