Lynas licence extended until 2031: MCA questions public safety and policy shift

 

MCA has raised concerns over the government’s decision to extend Lynas Rare Earths Ltd’s operating licence, questioning whether public safety is being adequately safeguarded in the years leading up to 2031.

The party’s deputy national organising secretary Datuk Kang Meng Fuat said the move appears to contradict Pakatan Harapan’s earlier pledge to shut down the rare earth processing plant upon taking office, and risks undermining public trust.

For context, Lynas has been the subject of longstanding public concern over radioactive waste management and environmental risks.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang had previously outlined that the production and accumulation of radioactive waste would cease by 2031.

However, Kang  argued that this timeline does not fully address concerns about ongoing risks in the interim.

He noted that based on the minister’s explanation, Lynas would only be required to halt activities generating radioactive waste in Malaysia after the first five years of its renewed licence.

“Does this mean that, in the coming years, rare earth processing involving radioactive risks will continue? During this period, are the people expected to bear the consequences of this decision on their own?” Kang, who is also MCA’s Pahang state liaison committee deputy chairman, asked.

“Before coming into power, Pakatan Harapan made a clear promise that Lynas would be shut down. However, not only has that not happened, the licence has now been extended.”

Kang further added that the apparent shift in position raises questions about the consistency of government policy and the credibility of its assurances.

He also called on the government to fully disclose all relevant assessment reports and data to enable the public to better understand the risks and mitigation measures in place, and urged authorities to explain the differences between previous commitments and current policy, as well as the reasons behind the change.

In addition, Kang emphasised the need for strict enforcement of regulatory measures, including immediate action such as licence revocation in cases of non-compliance.

“What the rakyat seeks is not repeated explanations, but clear, consistent and accountable answers on radioactive waste and decisions that may affect public safety,” he stressed. ‒  Focus Malaysia