THE initial assessment of the proposed permanent disposal facility (PDF) for rare earth processing company Lynas Malaysia Sdn Bhd is expected to be decided by next month, says Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.

       The Science, Technology and Innovation Minister said the environmental impact assessment and radiological impact assessment for the facility at the Gebeng Industrial Area had been submitted to the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) and Department of Environment.

       “They need about two months. It was submitted in September, and in November we will make a decision,” he said in reply to a supplementary question from Wong Tack (PH-Bentong) who asked why Lynas had yet to build a permanent disposal facility after the AELB urged the company to do so.

       Adham noted the operating licence for Lynas had been renewed until 2023.

       “Be assured that we will together defend the position of our country if there is any radioactive pollution,” said the minister.

       He said the PDF was classified as a low risk area for floods.