SYNOPSIS

X-rays and radioactive materials were discovered in the 1890s and quickly applied in medicine, including Malaysia’s first X-ray use in 1897. Early use lacked safety, leading to harmful deterministic effects like skin damage and infertility, and stochastic effects such as cancer. These health risks shaped international radiation protection standards. Post-WWII, global nuclear tension rose, but peaceful uses expanded through the IAEA. Malaysia commissioned a research reactor in 1982, promoting nuclear applications via Nuclear Malaysia under strict regulation. Though many nations use nuclear power for electricity, Malaysia has delayed adoption, though interest is growing, especially in safer thorium-based nuclear energy.


BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Dr Idris lives in Kajang. He received his first degree in physics from the University of Malaya, then went to Oregon State University in the USA and the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom for his MSc and PhD, respectively, both in health physics. He worked at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia) for 30 years prior to his retirement in 2011, serving in various capacities, including operational radiation protection, research and development in radiation safety, as well as in biomedical engineering and the promotion of nuclear power. At present, he isstill actively participating in a number of professional organizations, such as the Malaysian Nuclear Society (MNS), the Malaysian Radiation Protection Association (MARPA) and the Malaysian Association of Medical Physics (MAMP); he is also certified by Atom Malaysia as a consultant as well as a trainer in radiation protection.