The IAEA expert panel assured that they will review the controversial RM700 billion Lynas Advanced Material Plant (Lamp) according to public health standards.

"It is true that we represent the IAEA which is primarily working with radiation protection and safety, but (I) want you to keep in mind that the standard that we use for working with safety is based on public health concerns.

"So safety measures are implemented in accordance with the standards, so that health and protection of workers, the public and the environment will be ensured," said the head of IAEA's waste and environmental safety section Magnus Vesterlind to members of the press today.

The nine-member IAEA expert panel formed to review the establishment of Lamp held a public consultation at a five-star hotel in Putrajaya today. It will submit its findings and recommendations to the government by the end of this month.

Panel silent on waste

The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) research policy executive Foon Weng Lian, who spoke to the press after meeting with the panel, disclosed that the panel didn't guarantee how to manage the thorium waste by-product from the rare earth refinery process.

"They said that they will look into it, and will certainly comment on this issue (in the final report)," said Foon.

Foon added that the panel will re-study the radioactive impact assessment (RIA) report, and determine the best option for the storage of the waste.

"As long as the waste is being dumped here, that option is being used without any better options, then we will certainly oppose this.

"In 1,500 years to come, the exposure can go up to 6 mSv per year, so I am concerned about our future on this," added Foon, quoting the fact from the RIA report.

"They are not in the position to say whether (the plant) is safe or not safe, they will just put in all the data in the report, and then the government will decide later.

"Of course, the report is the main factor to determine whether the plant is safe or not safe," he said.

According to Foon, the panel didn't mention their visit to the site in the Gebeng industrial zone at Kuantan yesterday.