Latest news with #AtomicEnergyLicensingAct1984
The Sun
31-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia to table Atomic Bill amendments
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is stepping up its push into nuclear energy, as the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) prepares to propose key amendments to the Atomic Energy Bill – a move aimed at reinforcing the nation's nuclear regulatory framework. Minister Chang Lih Kang said the move reflects Malaysia's commitment to exploring nuclear as a future energy source, alongside early progress in thorium (a radioactive metallic element) extraction. 'A pre-feasibility study on nuclear energy has been completed. Initial findings show strong potential for Malaysia to pursue this path,' he said in response to Kuala Terengganu MP Datuk Haji Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN). Following the study, six technical task forces were proposed – three of which are led by Mosti. They focus on technology and industrial development, nuclear skills and expertise and the legal-regulatory structure. Chang also previously confirmed that the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 will be amended to support the next phase of development. Malaysia currently has 323 research officers at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers at the Atomic Energy Department. Of these, 61 hold qualifications in nuclear science or engineering. 'This reflects our commitment to developing local talent to support safe and responsible use of nuclear technology.' Chang said international cooperation is also a core strategy. He said Malaysia is working closely with global agencies on technical training, joint research, technology transfer and capacity building nuclear science. 'On July 10, we signed a strategic civil nuclear agreement with the United States. This is a major catalyst for long-term collaboration on Malaysia's civil nuclear ambitions.' Malaysia is also pursuing similar partnerships with China and Russia to build capacity in nuclear power generation. 'The partnerships will give us access to cutting-edge expertise, proven technologies and best practices, which are critical for building our infrastructure and local industry.' Chang added that Malaysia collaborates with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation to detect nuclear weapons tests and use scientific data for natural disaster monitoring, including earthquakes and tsunamis. Malaysia also maintains strong ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency through technical cooperation, regional agreements and research collaborations under the Asian Nuclear Cooperation Forum. Beyond power generation, Chang said nuclear technology is already being used to tackle environmental and climate challenges.
New Straits Times
30-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia to amend atomic law to explore nuclear energy
KUALA LUMPUR: The bill to amend Malaysia's atomic energy legislation may be tabled in the current parliamentary session, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang. Chang said the move to enact the law would reflect Malaysia's commitment to exploring nuclear energy as a future energy source. "The ministry is currently in the process of amending the Atomic Energy Bill. If we receive Cabinet approval, we hope to table it during this session," he said during Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today. On March 10, Chang said that the government will be amending the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 to further strengthen the legal infrastructure dealing with nuclear technology. At the time, the government was engaging with stakeholders to gather input before moving forward with the use of nuclear technology as an energy source, which is expected to be incorporated into the 13th Malaysia Plan. Chang, in Parliament today, said Malaysia has the laboratory expertise to extract thorium, but lacks the research and development capacity to utilise the element as a source of electricity — unlike countries such as China. "We are enhancing our research and development capabilities through collaboration with nations that have expertise, such as China, Russia, India and the United States," he said in response to a supplementary question from Datuk Haji Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN–Kuala Terengganu). Chang said that a pre-feasibility study conducted by a committee under the ministry had been completed, with preliminary findings indicating that Malaysia has significant potential to adopt nuclear technology as an energy source.
The Sun
19-06-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
‘Much needs to be done to adopt nuclear energy'
PETALING JAYA: Nuclear energy is back on the table as Malaysia eyes the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. First explored in the 1980s, nuclear power gained traction under ex-prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak but was shelved during former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's second term over safety and cost concerns. The idea resurfaced in 2023 under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) as a post-2050 option, pending regulatory, safety and public trust improvements. But major hurdles remain, including outdated laws, limited expertise and public distrust, said UKM renewable energy expert Dr Muhammad Ammirrul Atiqi Mohd Zainuri. He said while nuclear power could play a critical role in the NETR, Malaysia must first lay solid groundwork to proceed safely. 'The adoption of nuclear energy could help Malaysia achieve a sustainable and inclusive energy system. But serious challenges must be addressed, from obsolete laws and weak regulatory structures to deep-rooted public unease.' Unlike intermittent sources such as solar and wind, nuclear provides consistent power with zero operational emissions, making it a strong complement to the future energy mix of the country. However, safety concerns and radioactive waste continue to shape public perception. 'Incidents such as Fukushima and Chernobyl have left deep scars. Even at home, backlash over the Lynas plant in Kuantan reflects widespread discomfort over anything involving radioactive material,' said Muhammad Ammirrul. He said public trust, built through education, transparency and genuine engagement, would be essential if the government proceeds with nuclear energy. Beyond public acceptance, the legal framework is also in need of urgent reform. 'The country's main nuclear law, the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984, is outdated. It predates modern safety standards and best practices. Malaysia needs a dedicated nuclear energy law that clearly defines institutional roles, regulatory protocols and liability mechanisms.' He called for the creation of an independent nuclear regulatory authority, separate from ministerial oversight, to enhance safety and governance. Muhammad Ammirrul urged Malaysia to adopt a nuclear liability and insurance framework, potentially through accession to the Vienna Convention, a global treaty that enables cross-border compensation for victims of nuclear accidents. He said radioactive waste remains one of the toughest challenges. 'We still have no long-term disposal infrastructure. Spent nuclear fuel remains hazardous for thousands of years, and managing that sustainably is a major hurdle.' He said while renewables such as solar and wind are not without environmental impacts, they generate far less dangerous waste. He added that small modular reactors could offer a safer and more adaptable nuclear option for Malaysia as these compact systems are well-suited to smaller grids and could help stabilise renewable output. He said at present, Malaysia lacks the full technical capability to build or operate a nuclear plant independently. 'Agencies such as the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Department of Atomic Energy have expertise in research and radiation safety, but not in nuclear power generation. 'That said, local universities are now offering nuclear-related programmes, and overseas training is helping to develop human capital.' As for who might lead a national nuclear rollout, he said Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) is the most likely candidate. 'TNB has the infrastructure, technical expertise and government backing. It's already leading in renewables, so it makes sense for it to spearhead this as well.' On Tuesday, Energy Transition and Water Transformation Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said Malaysia may miss its 2050 net-zero emissions target without nuclear energy in the mix. He called nuclear energy the 'elephant in the room', saying it is vital for delivering reliable power as fossil fuels are phased out.
The Sun
19-06-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Malaysia reconsiders nuclear energy for net-zero by 2050
PETALING JAYA: Nuclear energy is back on the table as Malaysia eyes the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. First explored in the 1980s, nuclear power gained traction under ex-prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak but was shelved during former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's second term over safety and cost concerns. The idea resurfaced in 2023 under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) as a post-2050 option, pending regulatory, safety and public trust improvements. But major hurdles remain, including outdated laws, limited expertise and public distrust, said UKM renewable energy expert Dr Muhammad Ammirrul Atiqi Mohd Zainuri. He said while nuclear power could play a critical role in the NETR, Malaysia must first lay solid groundwork to proceed safely. 'The adoption of nuclear energy could help Malaysia achieve a sustainable and inclusive energy system. But serious challenges must be addressed, from obsolete laws and weak regulatory structures to deep-rooted public unease.' Unlike intermittent sources such as solar and wind, nuclear provides consistent power with zero operational emissions, making it a strong complement to the future energy mix of the country. However, safety concerns and radioactive waste continue to shape public perception. 'Incidents such as Fukushima and Chernobyl have left deep scars. Even at home, backlash over the Lynas plant in Kuantan reflects widespread discomfort over anything involving radioactive material,' said Muhammad Ammirrul. He said public trust, built through education, transparency and genuine engagement, would be essential if the government proceeds with nuclear energy. Beyond public acceptance, the legal framework is also in need of urgent reform. 'The country's main nuclear law, the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984, is outdated. It predates modern safety standards and best practices. Malaysia needs a dedicated nuclear energy law that clearly defines institutional roles, regulatory protocols and liability mechanisms.' He called for the creation of an independent nuclear regulatory authority, separate from ministerial oversight, to enhance safety and governance. Muhammad Ammirrul urged Malaysia to adopt a nuclear liability and insurance framework, potentially through accession to the Vienna Convention, a global treaty that enables cross-border compensation for victims of nuclear accidents. He said radioactive waste remains one of the toughest challenges. 'We still have no long-term disposal infrastructure. Spent nuclear fuel remains hazardous for thousands of years, and managing that sustainably is a major hurdle.' He said while renewables such as solar and wind are not without environmental impacts, they generate far less dangerous waste. He added that small modular reactors could offer a safer and more adaptable nuclear option for Malaysia as these compact systems are well-suited to smaller grids and could help stabilise renewable output. He said at present, Malaysia lacks the full technical capability to build or operate a nuclear plant independently. 'Agencies such as the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Department of Atomic Energy have expertise in research and radiation safety, but not in nuclear power generation. 'That said, local universities are now offering nuclear-related programmes, and overseas training is helping to develop human capital.' As for who might lead a national nuclear rollout, he said Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) is the most likely candidate. 'TNB has the infrastructure, technical expertise and government backing. It's already leading in renewables, so it makes sense for it to spearhead this as well.' On Tuesday, Energy Transition and Water Transformation Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said Malaysia may miss its 2050 net-zero emissions target without nuclear energy in the mix. He called nuclear energy the 'elephant in the room', saying it is vital for delivering reliable power as fossil fuels are phased out.
Barnama
24-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
MALAYSIA POISED TO CAPITALISE ON REE OPPORTUNITIES AMID US-CHINA TRADE WAR
BUSINESS By Muhammad Adil Muzaffar Mohd Fisol BANGI, April 24 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is positioning itself to become a key player in the rare earth elements (REE) value chain, amid a shifting geopolitical landscape and the ongoing trade war between the United States and China. Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang said there is growing interest from both Western and Chinese investors to collaborate with Malaysia in the sector, underscoring the country's strategic value and potential in rare earth processing. "They are very keen to work with us. President Xi Jinping has also explicitly stated that China will assist us in developing the processing technology. "Everything is developing at the pace and in the direction that we would like to see," he told Bernama and RTM after appearing as a panellist on MOSTI's Tech Talk programme at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) on Wednesday. To facilitate industry development, Chang said the government is in the process of amending the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 (Act 304), which currently limits industrial licences to three years, a timeframe he described as too short to support the sustainable growth of the REE industry. 'One of the key amendments involves Section 16(6), which currently empowers the ministry to issue licences for only three years,' he said, adding that the amendments are expected to be tabled this year. Chang emphasised the urgency of accelerating development in Malaysia's midstream and upstream REE sectors. "There is a need for us to accelerate its development because the window of opportunity is small. So, we need to harness whatever we have," he said.
