Malaysia, ASEAN Members Work Closely To Advance Safe, Regulated Nuclear Technology

JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 14 (Bernama) – Malaysia has been working closely with ASEAN member countries to strengthen regional cooperation to ensure the safe, secure, and regulated use of nuclear technology in the region.

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal said various initiatives, including capacity-building programmes, technical exchanges, and strategic collaborations, have strengthened regional preparedness and resilience against emerging challenges.

“None of these achievements would have been possible without your (ASEAN members’) longstanding support and collaboration,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the 12th Annual Meeting of ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (ASEANTOM) here today.

Also present were Atom Malaysia director-general Noraishah Pungut and Philippine Nuclear Research Institute director Dr Carlo Abundo Arcilla.

Mohammad Yusof said Malaysia, as the Chair of ASEANTOM this year, remains fully committed to ASEANTOM’s shared goals and will continue to contribute actively as a dedicated member.

He said this is in line with the official theme for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, under which Malaysia will ensure that no one is left behind and that every ASEAN citizen benefits from the region’s progress and sustainability.

“While promoting development that safeguards our environment and ensures long-term prosperity for generations to come, may our continued collaboration also pave the way for a safer, more innovative, and sustainable future for all,” he said.

Mohammad Yusof also stressed that the spirit of unity, trust, and cooperation that defines ASEAN and the ASEANTOM must continue so that the peace and prosperity of the region can be maintained.

Earlier, at the closing ceremony of the meeting, Malaysia officially handed over the chairmanship of ASEANTOM to the Philippines, marking the end of its term as chair.

Meanwhile, Arcilla said the Philippines, as the incoming chair, is fully dedicated to working hand in hand with all member states, dialogue partners, and the ASEAN Secretariat.

“As we take on this role, we do so with a spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility.

“Let us continue working together to ensure our region remains safe, secure, and well-prepared in the face of evolving nuclear and radioactive challenges,” he said.

-- BERNAMA