Malaysian residents are joining global voices opposing Japan’s plan to release treated wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean as early as this summer. CGTN interviews with locals revealed fears about potential contamination of marine ecosystems and its ripple effects on livelihoods and tourism.
“If the water is discharged, nuclear pollutants could travel worldwide through ocean currents,” said one Kuala Lumpur resident, echoing concerns about food safety and environmental health. Fishing communities in coastal regions worry about export bans, while others cite risks to agriculture and the long-term impact on Malaysia’s reputation as a travel destination.
Japan maintains the water will be filtered and diluted to meet safety standards, but skepticism persists. Scientists and activists argue insufficient data exists to guarantee minimal ecological disruption. The debate highlights growing public demand for transparency in environmental policymaking across Asia-Pacific nations.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Malaysians condemn Japan's nuclear wastewater discharge plan
cgtn.com
