THERE was no radiation or radioactive element detected on the two objects suspected to be debris from a Chinese rocket found in Sarawak recently, said the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti). 

Mosti said the matter was confirmed by a team that had carried out further investigations into two objects found in Kg Nyalau in Bintulu and Kg Sepupok Lama in Miri yesterday. 

Four officers of the Bintulu District Atomic Energy Licensing Board, the Hazardous Material Team of the Fire and Rescue Department, and Bintulu district police have conducted an investigation at the first location in Kg Nyalau. 

“Based on the measurements and the results of the initial investigation, it was found that the first suspected object of around 13cm in size did not emit any radiation and no radioactive elements were detected on the object. 

“The measurements and results of the preliminary investigation on the second object in Niah, Miri, also showed similar results,” Mosti said in a statement today. 

Mosti said the two objects suspected to be debris from a Chinese rocket are safe for further investigation and analysis. 

Mosti through the Malaysian Space Agency in collaboration with the Chemistry Department will carry out a detailed investigation on the two objects to confirm whether the objects are related to the debris re-entry incident from China’s Long March 5B rocket.

The results of the investigation and analysis will be notified and appropriate action will be considered in accordance with Malaysian Space Board Act 2022 (Act 834) and international treaties related to space under the management of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, said Mosti. 

On Sunday, the media reported that debris from China’s Long March 5B rocket was detected crossing Malaysian airspace in several areas, including around Sarawak. 

Mosti in a statement said its continuous monitoring through the Malaysian Space Agency, as well as a statement by the Chinese Space Agency, found that the re-entry of the rocket debris into Earth airspace was detected at 12.55am on Saturday local time.

According to Mosti, the debris was recorded falling around the Sulu Sea, which is an area between latitude 9.1º north and longitude 119º east. – Bernama, August 2, 2022.