Residents to Appeal Against Lynas' Licence

Related Media Releases :
1) Malaysian Bar Council : Hasty issuance of TOL to Lynas without proper consideration of public feedback smacks of recklessness

From left : Tuan Haji Ismail, Mr. Tan Bun Teet, Madam Abujavalli

Kuantan Residents to Appeal the Lynas Temporary Operating Licence

Press statement of Save Malaysia Stop Lynas (SMSL)

February 14, 2012

A notice to appeal against the Lynas temporary operating licence was sent to Dato Seri Maximus Ongkili, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation.  The notice which was sent on 7^thFebruary was signed by SMSL Chairperson Mr Tan Bun Teet, Vice Chairperson Tuan Haji Ismail Abu Bakar and a number of other concerned citizens of Kuantan.

Mr Tan explained to the media,

“As a responsible law abiding citizen, a caring parent and grandparent, I have to take action for the sake of my country and the future of my family”

“Was there ever a project which had attracted 1,123 public submissions in Malaysia’s history?  The Government’s hasty decision has made a mockery of democracy and broken the trust of the people on the Government.  We are seeking legal action as a last resort.”

The Temporary Operating License (TOL) was granted to Lynas Malaysia by the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) less than 3 working days after the public review period for Lynas’ application ended.  The decision has sparked strong public outcry.

Last year, the Government accepted all of the 11 recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following its review of the Lynas project. Yet the AELB has shortchanged that commitment by prematurely issuing the licence even though Lynas has no idea how to safely manage its massive amount of waste or where to store it.

“Apart from the solid waste problem, many coastal communities will be affected, especially those involved in fishery and tourism.”  Said Haji Ismail.

“These are my own people who will be left to bear the full impact of Lynas’ water and air pollution.  How can I not take any action to stop the project?” concluded Haji Ismail.

The Lynas refinery plant will be dumping 500 tonnes of contaminated water into the Balok River and the South China Sea; and 1,000 cubic metres of gas into the air.  Both streams of discharge will be contaminated with radioactive particles and possibly other hazardous substances harmful to the environment and human health.

Pn. Abujavalli A/P V Raman, a concern resident of Kuantan who joined SMSL in its appeal added,

“I have worked hard for my family and for my retirement in Kuantan.  This is a peaceful and safe town.  This is not a Chinese or Malay issue but an issue for all Malaysians who want a clean and safe future.  I will not sit back to let others fight my battle”

“Our right to life, livelihood and enjoyment of our properties and the environment we live in and that of the public at large which were guaranteed by the Federal Constitution will be jeopardised should Lynas be allowed to operate with so many unresolved issues on hand.“  concluded Mr Tan.

SMSL urged the Minister to exercise his power entrusted to him to suspend the licence, pending the hearing of the appeal to uphold the system of democracy and good governance.

Today is St Valentine’s Day.

This day is not the sole prerogative of lovers but everyone who loves life and freedom. We love Malaysia.  It is precisely because of our love for our beautiful country that we urge the Minister to demonstrate his love and duty of care for Malaysia as a Federal Minister to put on hold the Temporary Operation Licence to Lynas until the court has reached its decision on the appeal !