By theSun Local
KUALA LUMPUR: The development of Malaysia’s first satellite launch pad will be privately driven with the government acting solely as the regulator.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang highlighted the country’s strategic geographical position near the equator as a key advantage for the project.
He explained that a facility near the equator enables more efficient launches by significantly reducing rocket fuel requirements compared to sites located farther away.
“At present, most of the launch facilities are located far from the equator, with the nearest one in French Guiana,” he told reporters after a dialogue session at Wisma Bernama.
Chang also cited Malaysia’s robust electrical and electronics sector and its relative safety from natural disasters as additional appealing factors.
“We have the right recipe for a satellite launching pad, but I want to emphasise again that this will be a private initiative,” he added.
The minister declined to identify specific parties but confirmed that two foreign companies and one state government have expressed interest and submitted feasibility studies.
He stated that location suitability involves multiple factors beyond geography, including wind conditions, weather patterns, and proximity to international waters.
The Malaysian Space Agency previously indicated the country could become the first Southeast Asian nation with its own rocket launch pad by 2029.
This project aligns with the National Space Policy 2030 and could generate over 10 billion ringgit in gross domestic product.
On a separate matter, Chang shared that Tanjong Malim is set for rapid development due to major automotive sector investments.
He cited the Automotive High-Tech Valley and KLK Technology Park as key projects attracting next-generation automotive technologies and vendors.
Proton’s relocation of its Shah Alam plant to Tanjong Malim is expected to bring about 6,000 new employees to the area.
“This will contribute to a significant population increase requiring supporting infrastructure while benefiting local businesses,” he said. – Bernama
Source: malaysia-s-first-satellite-launch-pad-to-be-privately-driven-says-minister