Malaysia, Russia Explore Cooperation Under National Atomic Energy Programme
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 10 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Russia are exploring new avenues of cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy as Putrajaya finalises its National Atomic Energy Programme.
Russia’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Naiyl Latypov, said Moscow welcomes Malaysia’s decision to develop a national framework for atomic energy and is ready to work with the government once the necessary domestic approvals are completed.
“From my contacts with partners in different Malaysian authorities, the programme is still under discussion, but we hope that all necessary decisions will be made soon. It will be a good base for cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy,” he told a media briefing on Wednesday.
Latypov added that Russia is prepared to conclude all required memoranda of understanding and agreements to facilitate collaboration in multiple areas, including power generation, technology transfer and regulatory development.
Highlighting Russia’s global experience, he said the country currently has more than 20 nuclear power projects abroad and stands ready to assist Malaysia with various options, ranging from large-scale plants to medium and small modular reactors.
“Simultaneously, we are ready to speak about medium-range or small-range nuclear reactors, especially floating reactors,” said Latypov, noting that Russia is the only country with operational experience in floating nuclear plants.
In this regard, he said Moscow has proposed discussions on constructing a floating, small nuclear station for Malaysia, pointing to Russia’s existing floating nuclear facility in Kamchatka as a reference model.
“We are open for cooperation. We are ready to invite Malaysian specialists to visit this floating station, examine it, and discuss the possibilities,” said Latypov.
The model under consideration would be based on Russia building the floating platform and Malaysia paying only for the electricity produced.
He said that nuclear-generated power remains cost-efficient, stating it is “cheaper than the electricity produced in Malaysia now”.
Beyond power generation, potential collaboration includes leveraging Malaysia’s industrial capacity in shipbuilding and in the fabrication of components for floating platforms, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
Latypov emphasised the need for cooperation in education and training, as well as legal and regulatory development, describing these as essential pillars for any nuclear programme.
Recognising public sensitivities on nuclear energy, he said Russia is ready to support efforts to engage Malaysian stakeholders.
“Nuclear is a delicate issue. We are ready to help Malaysian authorities work with Malaysian public opinion on this matter,” said Latypov, adding that the proposed projects would contribute to job creation and local capacity building in the regions involved.
-- BERNAMA