New Straits Times 22 Jul 09;
BANGI: Malaysia is set to use nuclear power as an alternative energy source by 2025, as it is the cheapest source of power in the long run.
Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof said several government agencies were working on forming a committee to implement the policy.
He said Malaysia had the expertise for the undertaking.
Speaking to the media after officiating Malaysia Nuclear Day 2009 at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia), he said the cabinet had given approval two weeks ago for the policy to be implemented.
"We will also be engaging professionals and consultants for advice, besides linking up with international organisations such as the United Nations and IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) for verification and certification."
On the comparative cost of building nuclear plants and coal-fired plants, he said although initial costs may be twice the amount at US$1 billion to US$3 billion (RM3.5 billion to RM10.5 billion) for a 1,000 megawatt capacity, it would still be cheaper over the long run.
"Over time, nuclear energy is the cheapest, and environmentally-friendly with no pollutants produced. Hydrogen is produced but it can be used. We only need to treat waste products after 20 years."
Fadillah said the agency would embark on a public awareness campaign by engaging in dialogue and being transparent in dispelling the negative perception and doubts on the safety of nuclear energy.
"Nuclear energy has many positive uses such as in hospitals for CT scans and in food technology." he said, adding that Malaysia was lagging behind in embracing nuclear power as Indonesia would go nuclear by 2017, Vietnam by 2018 and Thailand next year.
