Security equipment repository for Asia-Pacific region established

Specifics: Under the terms of the agreement, the IAEA will store personal radiation detectors, radionuclide identification devices, and backpack radiation detectors at the Malaysia Nuclear Security Support Center. The equipment will be used to train front-line personnel—such as customs and law enforcement officers—in radiation detection techniques, enhance users’ ability to calibrate and maintain the equipment, and support detection capabilities at major public events in the region to prevent terrorist attacks using radioactive material.

What they’re saying: “Nuclear or other radioactive material lost or stolen may mean a vulnerability at national facilities or borders, and this type of equipment is key to detecting such material,” said Raja Abdul Aziz Raja Adnan, director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Security. “This loaner pool of radiation detection equipment is an example of how international cooperation—in this case trilateral cooperation between the IAEA, Malaysia, and Japan—can strengthen nuclear security.”

The signing: The agreement was signed by Adnan on behalf of the IAEA and Mohd Pauzi Mohd Sobari, director general of the AELB, at a virtual ceremony on the sidelines of last month’s IAEA General Conference. “With this enhanced technical capacity, we look forward to leveraging our national capabilities and lessons-learned to enhance harmonized implementation of nuclear security in the region,” said Mohd Sobari.