AELB is now known as Atom Malaysia

The Science, Technology, and Innovation Ministry has announced that the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) is now known as the Department of Atomic Energy Malaysia (Atom Malaysia).

Ministry secretary-general Aminuddin Hassim said the Public Service Department (JPA) had approved the name change and hoped that Atom Malaysia could carry out its functions comprehensively and more effectively.

“It is also hoped that the department can maintain its excellent performance as a transparent and reliable enforcement agency for nuclear energy activities, not only in Malaysia," he said in a statement today.

Recently, Aminuddin officiated the handover ceremony of Atom Malaysia's northern zone office (PZU). The construction began in 2018 at a total cost of RM12 million, which was approved under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP).

The completion certificate for the project was handed over by the Public Works Department (JKR) on Sept 29.

Aminuddin said the PZU building will ensure that all parties receive advice or services related to licencing, inspections, radiation safety officer examinations (PPS), training related to radiological emergencies (emergency drills), and others more quickly and efficiently.

Creating jobs

He said it was also expected to increase employment opportunities and sources of income for the people of Kedah and surrounding states while promoting economic growth in the country in line with the ministry’s theme “Merakyatkan Sains, Mengisankan Teknologi” (Popularising Science, Humanising Technology).

“PZU also plays an important role in providing information on radiation protection through public awareness and career development programmes in the field of radiation science to schools, universities, and university students to meet the needs of the industry," he said.

- Bernama