KUANTAN: The Pahang MCA will form a special committee to monitor operations of the Lynas Advance Material Plants (LAMP) which has been issued with a temporary operating licence (TOL).
State MCA chairman Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the committee, to be formed together with several Chinese associations in Pahang, would see that LAMP met the conditions stipulated in the TOL.
“We want to ascertain Lynas abide by the stipulated regulations so that its operations will not adversely affect the safety and health of the people in Kuantan,” he told reporters after chairing the Pahang MCA committee meeting here today.
Liow, who is Health Minister, said the committee would complement the special committee formed by the ministry a few months ago for the same purpose.
“The committee (formed by the ministry) has a panel comprising health experts, and if it is found that the plant’s operation endangers the residents’ health, we will propose to the authorities to take action,” he added.
Construction of the rare earth refinery plant became an issue after certain parties objected to it claiming that it will result in radiation.
Apart from that, the Pahang MCA also wants the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) to provide feedbacks on suggestions and ideas submitted by the public on Lynas Corporation’s application for the TOL last January.
“AELB should also explain on other conditions given to Lynas when the TOL was approved to the company last week.
“Although we know that there are four conditions, the people want to know whether the authorities will monitor and ensure that Lynas abide by them,” he added.
They include the requirement for Lynas to deposit USD50 million (RM152 million) guarantee with the government which can be paid in instalments and the provision of a permanent disposal facility (PDF). –Bernama