JOHOR BAHRU, August 13 — Malaysia will enhance its radiation monitoring capabilities with the installation of four additional Gamma Spectrum Water Monitoring Stations (GSWMS) in Langkawi, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Perhentian, and Bintulu by the end of this year.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang said the move follows the first installation at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) in Sepanggar, which serves as a strategic location near China, Japan, and South Korea.
Each station, costing about RM600,000, is designed to detect and monitor gamma radiation in water sources, contributing to safety, research, and early detection of abnormal readings across Asean through a connected monitoring network.
Chang emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in atomic energy safety, noting that while Malaysia has not adopted nuclear power generation, many neighbouring countries are exploring its potential.
The GSWMS initiative, already implemented in Vietnam and Singapore, supports the regulation of radioactive materials in various sectors beyond electricity production.
The minister underscored the need to strengthen Asean collaboration to ensure safety, security, and environmental protection in the face of growing nuclear energy developments.
