Nuklear Malaysia Sets Two Main Plans In Efforts To Mainstream Nuclear Technology

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 23 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia) has set two main plans in efforts to mainstream nuclear technology via the National Nuclear Technology Policy 2021-2030 (DTNN 2030).

Its deputy director-general (Research and Technology Development), Dr Muhammad Rawi Mohamed Zin said one of these plans is to set up a body that functions to directly convey information related to nuclear technology to the Prime Minister.

"This body is not only for advice but also has a voice to be conveyed to the Prime Minister's level so that this technology does not fall behind and is not looked down upon," he said as a guest on the last night's Bernama TV programme Ruang Bicara on the topic, "Two Years of the MADANI Government (2TM): Making Nuclear Technology Accessible to the People".

"If there is no team of experts capable of providing opinions to our leaders, perhaps that information would not reach them."

He said through this policy (DTNN 2030), Nuklear Malaysia also plans to establish a more organised and systematic radioactive nuclear waste management centre.

The country is advancing with industries and so on, and the use of technology involving radioactive nuclear materials is increasing...therefore, we want to have a place designated as a centre for the management of waste (involving radioactive nuclear materials) that is more organised to ensure that this nuclear technology is used more safely in Malaysia," he said.

Muhammad Rawi said that both plans in the DTNN 2030 are important because nuclear technology plays a crucial role in various socioeconomic sectors of the country, especially in the industrial, health, food and agricultural sectors, as well as in water management and environmental protection.

DTNN 2030, which was launched on Sept 20, 2023, is the government's first strategic initiative to mainstream the peaceful use of nuclear technology towards enhancing industrial competitiveness, strengthening the well-being of the people, and conserving natural resources and the environment.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) acts as the leading ministry to implement the policy with the development framework related to science and nuclear technology, whereas Nuklear Malaysia serves as the coordinating agency for national cooperation platforms, including strategic projects related to nuclear technology.

Nuklear Malaysia is also entrusted as the lead for the National Nuclear Technology Technical Committee, with technical experts from relevant government agencies, state institutions, regulators, the private sector, and academics who play a role in coordinating, reviewing, and advising on technical aspects related to nuclear technology in the implementation of the DTNN 2030.

-- BERNAMA