PUTRAJAYA: Lynas Malaysia Sdn Bhd's (Lynas) appeal to drop four licence conditions set by the Atomic Energy Licencing Board (AELB) has been rejected, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.
In a statement today, Chang said Lynas' appeal was rejected after an appeal hearing was held on April 28 following AELB's decision.
He said he had agreed to extend the period for the plant's cracking and leaching (C&L) activities until Dec 31 after taking into account the impact of the decision on global rare earth supply chain.
"Effective Jan 1, 2024, Lynas needs to ensure that its overseas C&L plants start operations as Lynas will no longer be allowed to import raw materials containing natural radioactive materials into Malaysia."
Earlier, AELB rejected Lynas' application to drop four conditions related to water leach purification residue management after July 2023, C&L activities at Lynas Advanced Materials Plant and import of lanthanide concentrate from Australia.
With the decision, Lynas can no longer produce additional radioactive waste after July this year.
Chang said the decision by the minister was final under Section 32(5) of the Atomic Energy Licensing Act.
"This decision was made after taking into account economic interests, environmental protection and public health."
He said the Malaysia Madani government understood the importance of the rare earth industry and was committed to ensuring that any business dealings related to the industry would not have a negative impact on the environment and the local population.
"Therefore, the decision was taken after careful evaluation, based on the principles of sustainable development and safety."
Chang said the ministry would continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the rare earth industry in Malaysia grew responsibly and complied with regulations and standards.