S
ince gaining independence in 1957, Malaysia has experienced a remarkable economic transformation, evolving from an agriculture-based economy to a diverse, multi-sector economy, with significant growth in industry and services.
The agricultural policies introduced in the 1970s successfully reduced dependency on the agriculture sector, which now contributes only around seven to eight per cent to the national economy.
However, Malaysia continues to explore new economic avenues, and in recent years, it has begun to focus on space technology.
To this end, Malaysia launched the National Space Policy 2030 in 2017 as a framework for developing the sector, followed by the establishment of the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) two years later.
HIGH RISK, BUT GREAT REWARDS
Explaining MYSA's role to Bernama, its Director-General, Azlikamil Napiah, said that the agency is responsible for ensuring the development and management of the national space sector are strategic, organised, and comprehensive.
"We are planning for space technology to become a new economic driver for the country. Malaysia no longer wants to be seen merely as a consumer of space technology but as a creator and provider of related services," he said in a recent interview held in conjunction with the 2024 National Day celebration.
Azlikamil Napiah
He added that the sector is projected to contribute one per cent, or RM10 billion, to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, and is expected to create at least 5,000 new jobs within that period.
"As a service provider, space technology will generate about RM40 million annually for the country through data, information, and other related services," he said, acknowledging that while space technology is the most advanced, highest-risk, and most expensive technology, it also offers substantial profits.
ROCKET LAUNCH SERVICES
Elaborating further, Azlikamil said that Malaysia is currently exploring various economic opportunities, including the potential to become a provider of rocket launch services into space.
"Malaysia's strategic location on the equator positions it as a potential provider of such services, which could offer lucrative returns.
"Perhaps this month or by the end of this year, we may decide on the most suitable location for the development (of a rocket launch site),” he said.
Citing French Guiana, which hosts a rocket launch site, he said that the French territory has experienced growth in its space technology sector, leading to the establishment of more local companies in the industry.
"When the site was established, it resulted in the creation of 600 companies and 350 startups. Some companies, for example, manufacture fairings, which spurred industrial opportunities," he added.
In line with these efforts, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) has launched the Guidelines for the Feasibility Study on the Development of Launch Facilities in Malaysia.
Chang Lih Kang
Its Minister Chang Lih Kang was reported as saying that the guidelines, approved by the National Space Committee, were developed in response to high demand from both local and international industry players, as well as several state governments, to explore the construction of such facilities.
The guidelines are also aligned with Pillar 2 of the National Space Policy 2030 Action Plan, which focuses on empowering space technology, infrastructure, and applications that are significant to the country.
DEVELOPMENT OF THIRD REMOTE SENSING SATELLITE
Sharing more about the country’s plans through the agency, Azlikamil said Malaysia is planning to develop its third remote sensing satellite, with implementation expected by 2027 at the latest.
“The government has issued a request for proposal (RFP), which will close at the end of this month. We will submit the RFP from interested parties to the government for a decision," he said, adding that the RFP is open to all local companies.
The development of the RazakSAT satellite is to provide high-resolution images to Malaysia and develop capabilities in space technology.
A remote sensing satellite observes and collects information about the Earth's surface. To date, Malaysia has launched two such satellites: TiungSAT-1 in 2000 and RazakSAT in 2009.
Additionally, he said the government also plans to develop space cities to enhance and stimulate the space technology ecosystem in the country.
"These space cities will encompass rocket launches, technology development, and even space tourism. Our goal is to have a space city in every state in Malaysia," he said
ON THE RIGHT TRACK
Meanwhile, industry player Langit Kita Sdn Bhd (Apadilangit) believes that Malaysia is on the right track in exploring the space technology sector as a new economic resource.
Its Chief Executive Officer, Hafez Murtza, attributed this belief to the open space policy and the decreasing cost of satellite construction, both of which will support Malaysia's exploration of the sector.
"Malaysia's opportunities in space technology are vast, largely because space technology is now more accessible."
Among the important components used in the RazakSAT satellite, in which it is the second satellite built by ATSB after the TiungSat Satellite.
"Currently, international policies are driving the commercialisation of space, allowing private companies to participate in the development of space technology," he explained.
He added that Malaysia should also leverage current developments in space technology to conduct research in other fields.
“We used to think space was only for communication technology, but now it goes beyond that, for example in defence, GPS (global positioning system), and
others. A lot of research is also being conducted in space, such as medical research for cancer," he said.
EDUCATING A SPACE-LITERATE GENERATION
According to Hafez, Apadilangit has trained over 180,000 young people in space sector exploration, thereby fostering interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
He said that his organisation is also collaborating on the 2024 National Space Camp, themed ‘Space Technology and Exploration.’
Ariane 5 Rocket replica and Measat-3d satellite replica on display at the MEASAT-3d Launch Ceremony from Kourou Space Centre, French Guiana at WTC-KL recently.
“We are discussing ways to attract students and the community to space and subsequently develop talent for the sector, thereby enhancing understanding in STEM fields," he said.
The 2024 National Space Camp, to be held in Perak, Penang, the Federal Territory, Sabah, and Sarawak from October to December this year, is a collaborative programme between MOSTI and private companies Apadilangit and Starlight Education from the United Kingdom.
Malaysia's efforts to diversify its economic resources reflect the nation's aspirations to achieve economic independence and establish itself as a leader in advanced technology.
These efforts promise new economic and employment opportunities and signify Malaysia's progress as a globally competitive nation, in line with the spirit of 'Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka,' aimed at building a brighter and self-reliant future.
Translated by Salbiah Said
