Kuala lumpur: ASEAN must ensure it possesses the technical capacity, regulatory readiness, and collaborative networks necessary to manage all types of nuclear reactors safely and effectively, in order to keep pace with global advancements in nuclear technology. Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia) director-general Dr Muhammad Rawi Mohamed Zin emphasised that such preparedness is crucial as nuclear power is increasingly recognised worldwide as a key option for clean energy and climate change mitigation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, within ASEAN, member states are exploring nuclear energy as part of their long-term energy strategies, while others are advancing its applications in medicine, agriculture, industry, and environmental protection. Dr Muhammad Rawi noted that advancements in nuclear technology, such as the various designs and approaches of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) with innovative safety features, are reshaping the global nuclear landscape.
The Network on Nuclear Power Safety Research (NPSR) was established to provide a platform for cooperation, capacity building, and joint research so that ASEAN can progress in a safe, responsible, and well-prepared manner. Dr Muhammad Rawi made these remarks during his opening address at the 8th ASEAN Annual Meeting On Nuclear Power Safety Research (ASEAN NPSR) held in Kuala Lumpur, hosted by Nuklear Malaysia in conjunction with Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN 2025.
Muhammad Rawi highlighted that the meeting will feature a Special Talk by distinguished experts from China, Japan, and the Russian Federation. ‘Their insights into nuclear safety research, SMR development, and international best practices will greatly enrich our deliberations and inspire new pathways for ASEAN cooperation,’ he said.
As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia is committed to strengthening regional resilience and advancing scientific cooperation through the Malaysian Nuclear Agency. Malaysia has a long-standing commitment to advancing peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology, from operating the TRIGA PUSPATI Research Reactor for over four decades to pioneering regional training programmes under the IAEA and RCA. This meeting reflects both Malaysia’s national commitment and regional responsibility under ASEAN’s collective framework.
Meanwhile, Nuklear Malaysia announced in a statement that for the first time, Malaysia is hosting the annual meeting, which began in 2017, in line with the rotation policy among ASEAN countries. The NPSR took place over three days, starting yesterday, at a hotel in the capital, involving 27 participants from Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, including host Malaysia, and potential new ASEAN partner country Timor Leste. The annual meeting brings together researchers, academics, policymakers, and engineers from ASEAN countries to discuss the latest developments, share best practices, and strengthen cooperation in the field of nuclear energy safety.