PUTRAJAYA: The feasibility study guidelines for the development of a space launch site is being prepared, says Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.
He said his ministry believes Malaysia has great potential for a space launch facility.
“Malaysia’s unique geographical position close to the equator gives the country an advantage to develop launch facility services with much more competitive operating costs.
“If this becomes a reality, the facility will be the 16th in the world and will make Malaysia the ninth country to have one,” he said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported.
Chang said the Malaysian Space Agency, which would develop the guidelines for the feasibility study, is holding engagement sessions with several parties and industries interested in the project.
He said the government’s involvement in the industry is estimated to contribute to the development of the space economy with a value of RM10bil by 2030, in addition to the growth of 500 space-related technology start-ups, creating 5,000 job opportunities.
Chang said his ministry is also drafting the National Remote Sensing Satellite Development Programme through a public-private partnership strategy that is expected to kick off in 2026.
“This programme is important to ensure the continuity of ownership of the country’s strategic data which also supports the operational effectiveness of the 50 application system packages that have been developed by the space agency,” he added.
