The event opened with remarks from Farhana Nasir of the IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, who emphasized that the activity is grounded in IAEA safety standards and the Code of Conduct as primary references. "This workshop, attended by over 25 participants from BAPETEN, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and international experts, is expected to serve as a productive forum for strengthening regulatory capacity in nuclear safety. Regulatory effectiveness poses a significant challenge in many countries; therefore, forums like this are crucial for sharing experiences, engaging in discussions, and seeking collaborative solutions," she stated.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Ciptadi Syuryavin, Head of BAPETEN’s Education and Training Division (BDL), apologized for the circumstances not yet being fully conducive to an in-person gathering but expressed hope that participants would soon be able to interact face-to-face and enjoy the atmosphere in Jakarta. "This workshop is a key activity for BAPETEN in 2025, particularly regarding the strengthening of competencies in research reactor ageing management and preparations for decommissioning. The event is intended to provide a space for dialogue, technology sharing, and enhanced collaboration to ensure the safe operation of nuclear reactors," he explained.

The event was opened by Taruniyati Handayani, Head of the Centre for Regulatory Assessment of Nuclear Installation and Materials (P2STPIBN) at BAPETEN. In her remarks, she stated that this workshop is part of a technical cooperation project initiated by P2STPIBN BAPETEN in its capacity as a technical support organization. "This workshop serves as a vital platform for us to learn from IAEA experts, particularly regarding research reactor ageing management and decommissioning preparations. Indonesia’s three research reactors have been in operation for over three decades; consequently, sooner or later, we must be prepared for the decommissioning phase, both in terms of facilities and regulations. Our decommissioning regulations still rely on outdated standards, so updates are essential to align with international developments," she explained.

The workshop featured three IAEA experts, Farhana Nasir (IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security), Frank Trzebiatowski (Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Ltd. or CNL), and Ashraf Khamun (Egyptian Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority), and covered several key topics, including research reactor safety issues and challenges; an overview of research reactors and organizational roles; inspection planning and execution; IAEA safety standards for ageing management and their interaction with maintenance and periodic testing; and IAEA safety standards for decommissioning preparations.

Upon completing the workshop, participants are expected to gain the competence required to carry out regulatory oversight duties, specifically the ability to evaluate Ageing Management Plans, conduct necessary oversight, assess decommissioning plans, and support the formulation of BAPETEN policies and regulations regarding decommissioning. [BHKK/SP/Translator: GP]