Wei-Eng Ang is Principal Assistant Director at the Atomic Energy Licensing Board in Malaysia. We asked him about his experience with the WINS Academy and the benefits of international cooperation to support nuclear security professionals in their work.
How did achieving certification help you achieve your professional goals?
The WINS Academy certification will put me on the path to the larger goal of becoming a nuclear regulatory authority, which will enhance my knowledge in nuclear security. Other than that, I will be able to know international best practices and have the credentials as an officer working for Malaysia’s nuclear regulatory board.
How have you been able to use what you have learned at WINS in your professional life?
Using my knowledge gained from the WINS Academy, I had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with other officers at AELB and our licensees. This is done to ensure the competency and compliance of our stakeholders and licensees in the field of nuclear security.
“The WINS Academy certification will put me on the path to the larger goal of becoming a nuclear regulatory authority.”
What inspired you to become a WINS Academy Ambassador?
Previously, I was an officer at the enforcement department, and I identified an area of improvement in our operations process. Thus, I feel the need to enhance my expertise in nuclear security because I believe that in order to prove one’s credentials as an officer who works in enforcement, there is a need to be certified. Moreover, by being a WINS Academy Ambassador, I can contribute to the Nuclear Security Culture Committee in AELB and have access to broader networks, including the alumni network. I will be able to exchange ideas and share experiences with international professionals in the nuclear security sector.
“In order to prove one’s credentials as an officer who works in enforcement, there is a need to be certified.”
What advice do you have for current WINS Academy learners or those considering enrolling?
I definitely think everyone in this industry should go for it!
My advice for current WINS Academy learners or those who are considering enrolling in this programme is to always seize the opportunities that you have at the moment as it is an added value professionally and this is a great opportunity to grow yourself as a professional in the nuclear security sector. Moreover, once certified, you can build networks and have access to other nuclear security professionals around the world. You will have the chance to share best international practices and open your mind to amazing and diverse knowledge.
“Once certified, you can build networks and have access to other nuclear security professionals around the world.”
Why is international cooperation key to promoting nuclear and radioactive source security?
Enhancing the protection of radioactive sources from terrorists requires cooperation and coordination among stakeholders not only nationally but also across borders. It takes a collective effort to combat the threat of sabotage for terrorism and malicious acts that are related to radioactive sources.
“It takes a collective effort to combat the threat.”
From the Atomic Energy Licensing Board
How has your organisation benefited from Ang achieving Certified Nuclear Security Professional status?
By achieving the status of Certified Nuclear Security Professional, it shows AELB’s commitment to nuclear security, most importantly as a nuclear regulatory authority in Malaysia. His credentials will inspire other employees to take part in the WINS Academy certification programme. Additionally, by having more certified officers in AELB, it will definitely bring more transformation in AELB’s approach towards efficient and sustainable implementation of nuclear security programmes.
“It is crucial to keep the staff’s competencies up-to-date and adequate to address any new or existing difficulties. WINS Academy certification is known for its professional standards.”
What role does WINS certification play in your institution’s professional development programme?
The nuclear industry is going through a period of unprecedented change that requires regulators who can adapt to the future. Hence, it is crucial to keep the staff’s competencies up-to-date and adequate to address any new or existing difficulties. WINS Academy certification is known for its professional standards developed by a recognised, respected certifying body. Not only does the WINS Academy certification programme provide opportunities for Ang’s growth and development, it is also considered to be crucial to the success of the AELB’s aim of strengthening nuclear and radiation security capacities.
