Kuantan residents express renewed radiation fears as Lynas plant gets a 10-year licence extension, with some calling for strict oversight and others citing economic benefits.
PETALING JAYA: The government’s decision to renew Lynas Malaysia’s licence for another 10 years has sparked renewed concerns among Kuantan residents over potential radiation risks, even as authorities insist the plant could operate safely.
Former science lecturer Nik Ruzni Nik Idris, 63, said she was taken aback by the move.
“Of course I don’t like it, because it’s not good.
“It’s quite dangerous. We worry about leaks or something like that,” said Ruzni, who has lived in Indera Mahkota for more than 20 years.
“Even though I live about 10km from the factory, I feel for those who live nearby because it’s very risky for them. So hopefully the authorities reconsider the decision.”
She added that the refinery had long been controversial, particularly during protests in the past.
“Even if we don’t live near it, many residents in Kuantan opposed it back then.
“I don’t think anyone in my neighbourhood supports it, except perhaps those working at the factory because it provides jobs.”
Self-employed resident Mohd Saiful Mohamed Yusof, 44, believes the plant could operate safely if properly monitored.
“I believe the authorities have the capability to oversee the plant through agencies such as the Environment Department and the Atomic Energy Licensing Board.”
“Monitoring must be transparent and continuous, and should involve independent experts so that public confidence is strengthened.”
He said much of the debate around the refinery had been shaped by political narratives.
“The controversy back then was fuelled by opposition parties to stir public anger against the government.
“Now that the same political side is in power and has extended the licence for 10 more years, (the public) could see that the refinery also brings economic benefits such as investment and job opportunities.”
Mohd Iqram Md Nor, 27, who grew up in Kuantan but now works in Kuala Lumpur, said he did not closely follow the 2012 protests.
“I didn’t really follow the issue at the time. But from what I hear from my parents and friends who still live in Kuantan, I haven’t heard of any major problems recently.”
However, he emphasised that the issue should be viewed from multiple perspectives.
“The government must have done its research before renewing the licence, so the important thing now is to ensure operations are monitored properly.”
theSun reached out to the Atomic Energy Department, which regulates the industry under the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984, for comment on the licence renewal but received no response by press time.
The Sun Malaysia
