Impact of Lynas Rare Earth Refinery in Malaysia on Singapore's Environment and Food Imports

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources with regard to the Lynas rare earth refinery in Kuantan, Malaysia (a) whether the Government has any plans to monitor the potential threat to Singapore in terms of radioactive waste contamination to our waters and our agricultural/marine imports from Malaysia in the case of an accident or inadequate containment of toxic build-up; and (b) if so, what are the steps taken to protect Singapore.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Some concerns have been expressed in the Malaysian media regarding the operation of the Lynas Advance Materials Plant in Kuantan.

In May 2011, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conducted a review of the Lynas Plant at the request of the Malaysian government. The review focussed on whether the design and operational specifications and procedures of the plant were in compliance with international radiation safety standards.

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We have been informed that the IAEA review concluded that there was no non-compliance with international radiation safety standards. The exposure of members of the public to radioactive materials as a result of any contamination of surface water bodies is expected to be negligible since all liquid effluent is supposed to be treated before discharge to remove any contaminants.

The IAEA also recommended the proper monitoring of all discharges of dust and liquid effluent to ensure that they remain at insignificant levels.

In Singapore, NEA has an ambient radiation monitoring programme to detect abnormal variations to the natural background level.

The national water agency, PUB, also has a comprehensive water sampling and monitoring programme from source to tap covering a wide range of some 300 chemical, microbiological and radiological parameters based on the World Health Organisation guidelines. Raw water samples are taken daily for various tests including radiological tests to be carried out to monitor the water quality. Since the Lynas plant in Kuantan is some 300 km from Singapore, PUB expects that the refinery would have no significant impact on Singapore's water supply.

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) implements an integrated food safety system to ensure that imported and locally produced food is safe for human consumption. Our import surveillance includes systematic inspection and testing of food imported into Singapore.

These measures help ensure that our food and water supply remain safe and clean. The Government will continue to remain vigilant and monitor any potential sources of contamination to our imports and our environment. There are also existing bilateral platforms that Singapore has with Malaysia to share information and jointly monitor issues of environmental concern.