MOSTI Expands Nuclear Technology Awareness In Rural Areas, Orang Asli Villages

TUMPAT, Aug 8 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) is expanding its efforts to raise public awareness and understanding of nuclear technology in rural areas, including Orang Asli villages, to ensure no one is left behind in the nation’s technological development.

Its Deputy Minister Datuk Mohamad Yusof Apdal said this approach was crucial as nuclear technology was still widely viewed as something to be feared or associated only with weapons, when in fact it could be harnessed in sectors such as energy, healthcare and agriculture.

“We find that public awareness of the benefits of nuclear technology is still low. When nuclear is mentioned, many link it to weapons, when in fact this technology holds great potential. It can benefit rural communities, including the Orang Asli, whether as an energy source or a catalyst for economic development,” he said.

He said this in a press conference after officiating the closing ceremony of the nuclear technology satellite programme ‘Santuni Kasih Rakyat 2025 Kelantan’ at Jeti Kasih, Kampung Pasir Pekan Tengah, here today.

Mohamad Yusof said the programme’s theme, ‘Teknologi Nuklear Santuni Kasih Rakyat’ was in line with the Malaysia MADANI aspirations, carrying a clear message that nuclear technology was no longer exclusive to certain groups but should be shared with and utilised by all citizens.

“The MADANI Rakyat 2025 programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of advancements in science, technology and innovation reach all segments of society, regardless of location, ethnicity or socio-economic background.

“The Malaysian Nuclear Agency has developed various nuclear technology-based products and services that are safe, high-impact, and directly beneficial to the public, including in the fields of medicine, agriculture, industry and the environment,” he said.

He added that the Malaysian Nuclear Agency also works closely with universities and industry players, including public and private hospitals, to ensure that high-quality, high-impact research and development (R&D) outcomes are effectively translated into real-world applications for end users.

“Indirectly, this helps ensure that expertise in nuclear technology continues to contribute to improving the people’s quality of life.

“The selection of Kelantan as the location for this satellite programme is also significant as the state is not only rich in cultural heritage and tradition but also holds great potential to thrive in the modern technology era,” he said.

-- BERNAMA