Nuclear TNB-KEPCO Joint Workshop

A joint workshop on nuclear was held last week for 2 days starting from 28th June until 29th June. The workshop marks the closing of MoU between TNB and KEPCO on Pre-Feasibility study on Nuclear Power Plant for Peninsular Malaysia. Since June 2009, TNB and KEPCO have been working closely after an MoU was signed between the two big utilities. The Pre-FS study was conducted to study the viability of having nuclear plant in Malaysia. It is the very first step in preparing Peninsular Malaysia towards having its first unit of NPP erected in 2021, as of latest disclosure.

I was one of secretariats for the even. However, i feel bad for not putting as much assistance and contributions as i could throughout the event. Nuclear Energy Unit was the backbone for the event;however, others from MNA, AELB did help a lot in making this a successful event. During the event, i was assigned as rapporteur alongside with Arziril and Aizuddin. The task of a rapporteur is to write questions asked by participants during the Q&A session. I did enjoy doing the task, despite at few times i couldn`t get and understand what the Korean delegations said whey they were answering the questions posed by audience. I think Korean people really have to improve their English speaking skills in order to work better with their clients in the future. However i can`t dismiss the fact that they are very friendly, helpful and determined . I somehow envy the workaholic culture that their race upholds. Most of them i would say have both `skema` look and personality, but hey, they have proven to us that their race and country are far better than us in terms of economy as well as soccer!

Okay, a little updates on nuclear plant is Malaysia. Peter Chin has made announcement that we`re going to have our first NPP installed in Peninsular in 2021. Thus we`re going on a fast track basis, just like what UAE is having. Thus, a lot of things need to take place in order to have this dream comes true. Well, it`s not dream anymore, it is almost a reality now since we have less than 15 years from now, as opposed to previously proposed date for COD of the first unit. NPP is an intensive project in which a long lead time is needed, usually between 13-15 years. The reason lies in various stages that need to go through. Siting alone takes much of the time. At the very beginning, a desktop study is done to determine suitability of sites. It is then followed by preliminary site investigation, and after a few top sites have been selected, a detailed site investigation is performed on those sites before the final site is chosen. These process alone takes a few years. The main goal for siting is to ensure that the site meets requirements to protect the public and the environment from radiation.

I was disappointed though to see the number of people attending the event. The turnout was not as expected. I think there were like only 60-70 people including local counterparts altogether. Despite the attendance, the event was a successful one. But 1 thing i don`t like about attending workshop or seminar is that the food is served 6 times a day!..how can i miss the yummy food ..plus it`s free!!