KUALA LUMPUR, December 1 – Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) has expressed deep disappointment regarding the MADANI government’s recent decision to extend Lynas Corporation’s operations until March 2026. This move represents a stark U-turn from the government’s earlier stance, causing confusion and concern among environmental advocates. SAM, a prominent environmental organization, is puzzled by the government’s reversal and calls for a clear explanation regarding the shift in policy. Previously, the government had expressed concerns about the radioactive aspects of Lynas Corporation’s activities.
The government’s statement, issued by the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI), stipulates that Lynas’s Cracking & Leaching (C&L) operations will continue with the condition that Lynas reduces the radioactive content in the Water Leach Purification (WLP) residue to below 1 Becquerel per gram (Bq/g). This reduction is to be achieved through an R&D program led by local experts. Currently, the radioactive content stands at 6-7 Bq/g, and SAM questions the feasibility of local experts reducing it to the mandated level. It appears that the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) based its decision on the findings of a preliminary laboratory-level study.
Indicating that radioactive materials from thorium could be extracted from the WLP residue to the point where it no longer requires regulation under the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984. However, no details have been provided about the methods or experiments that would lead to this reduction. SAM is urging the government to be more transparent and disclose the specifics of the research, as it finds the reversal based on preliminary findings unconvincing and concerning from a public health and environmental perspective. SAM has long emphasized that profit should not come at the expense of people’s health and the environment.
