UM denies claims linking PET-CT facility to radiation risk


PETALING JAYA: Universiti Malaya (UM) has denied allegations that its Positron Emission Tomography–Computed Tomography (PET-CT) imaging facility is linked to harmful radiation exposure.

In a statement on Friday (April 17), UM said all PET-CT scanning operations at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM) are conducted under strict safety standards.

“The safety, health and well-being of every employee and the public is always a priority at PPUM.

“Radiation exposure levels are in accordance with set standards and are controlled.

“All radiation workers are required to wear personal dosimeters.

“Official records show that staff radiation exposure is significantly lower than and below the gazetted dose limits,” the statement read.

It added that regular health screenings are conducted on schedule.

UM also said that PPUM operates in full compliance with standard operating procedures for the radiation protection programme, the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 (Act 304), the Atomic Energy Licensing Regulations (Basic Radiation Safety Protection) 2010, and the Atomic Energy Licensing Regulations (Radioactive Waste Management) 2011.

“Radioactive waste handling is closely monitored and carried out only with approval from the relevant authorities,” it said.

UM further noted that inspections by the Health Ministry’s Medical Radiation Control Division (BKRP) in October 2025 found no violations, confirming that PPUM adheres to all prescribed regulations.

“Annual licence inspection visits by BKRP enforcement officers are also carried out in accordance with the requirements and compliance set.

“PPUM remains fully prepared for inspections by the authorities to ensure continuous compliance with all safety regulations and standards.

“The management has assured that all radiation-related work environments are safe and constantly monitored by certified regulatory bodies, and urges all parties not to spread unfounded speculation that could cause public concern,” it said.

On April 17, the University of Malaya Association of New Youth (Umany) held a press conference to address viral claims of alleged radiation leaks and the existence of a cancer cluster among UMMC staff.

The allegations also included claims that some staff members were suffering from chronic illnesses, including cases of stage four cancer and severe thyroid conditions.

Earlier, on March 16, the Universiti Malaya Students’ Union (KMUM) had raised the issue on social media following the circulation of documents that sparked concerns over radiation safety at the PET-CT imaging facility.

 

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