The radiation level at the rare earth Lynas Advanced Materials Plant (Lamp) in Gebeng has been verified as being within the levels permitted by local and international standards, 11 months after it first began operation.      

Lynas Malaysia Sdn Bhd vice-president and managing director Mashal Ahmad said the radiation readings at the plant and its surroundings which were approved by international consultants were displayed at the plant and online.         

"We also welcome the public to visit our facility, to observe and obtain accurate information that Lamp is safe for our employees, the people and the environment," he said after a special visit by 80 health officials to the plant on Wednesday.        

As of the second quarter this year, the plant has processed 144 tonnes of rare earth, with 117 tonnes of it exported overseas, he added.      

He said the plant also operated under atmospheric pressure and surrounding temperature and furthermore the raw materials used had a very low radioactive level

Meanwhile, one of the officials, Penang South West district health officer Dr Mohamed Iqbal Hamzah said the information they obtained during the visit enabled them to understand the plant's operation better and that it was not harmful to people and the environment.   

He said the briefing and data from Lynas also showed that its operations did not affect the water used by the local community.    

"I'm confident that Lamp's products will not jeopardise public health," he said.      

- Bernama