Malaysia’s Dewan Rakyat (parliament) has approved amendments to the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 (Act 304), which has remained unchanged for 41 years. According to Science, Technology & Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, the amendments were aimed at strengthening and modernising the legislation to ensure more comprehensive enforcement covering safety, security and usage control, in line with current developments in atomic energy technology.
“Although Malaysia will only decide on the use of nuclear energy for electricity generation after 2030, this amendment represents a step in preparing for that possibility, as we can begin preparations only after a decision has been made,” he said, concluding the debate on the bill. He stressed that the main focus was not to determine Malaysia’s policy on nuclear energy use, but to strengthen the legal framework under Act 304 in line with international standards.
The bill also provides for the establishment of the Atomic Energy Advisory Council. In addition, a new Section 41D was introduced to stipulate offences and penalties for individuals who engage in activities involving radioactive or nuclear material with the intent to cause death, serious injury, or significant damage to property or the environment.
Chang said the gazetting of the bill would provide Malaysia with the necessary domestic legal provisions to sign international instruments, demonstrating a commitment to fulfilling international obligations and becoming a party to global frameworks related to atomic energy.
“In this regard, there are five international instruments related to atomic energy that have yet to be signed, and two that require ratification, as part of the preparatory steps towards the possible use of nuclear energy for electricity generation,” he said.
