The move to rope in International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) into the independent panel reviewing the safety of the Lynas rare earth plant project in Pahang has drawn support.
However, residents affected by the plant are adamant in opposing it.
Semambu assemblyman Datuk Pang Tsu Ming welcomed the agency’s assistance, saying this was in line with International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed’s suggestion.
“This is what everyone wanted. So, of course we welcome IAEA’s input. We should wait for their answer to get a rational decision on the issue,” he added.
MCA’s Teruntum assemblyman Chang Hong Seong said the move to set up the panel with IAEA in it was “good progress”.
“I hope they can get to the bottom of the issue soon because people need an answer,” he said, adding that the party had made its stand clear on not compromising on any project that would harm the public.
Pahang Local Government, Environment and Health committee chairman Datuk Hoh Khai Mun said the state’s priority was the same.
“Right now, we cannot assume what the outcome might be,” he said. “We have to give the experts an opportunity to conduct a fair and transparent review before we act on their conclusion.”
Kuantan residents group Save Malaysia, Stop Lynas chairman Vincent Jiam said he was not confident that IAEA’s involvement would lend credibility to the panel’s mission.
“IAEA is only here to facilitate the nuclear aspect of the review,” he said.
“The panel needs to have a fair representation from environmentalists and victims of the Bukit Merah tragedy,” he added, insisting that any outcome would not change the residents’ stand on the issue.
“I feel that we are still being marched against our will.”
