(Kuala Lumpur, 21st) Malaysia plans to build Southeast Asia’s first rocket launch pad by 2029, with three potential sites currently under consideration: Pahang, Sarawak, and Sabah.
Datuk Azlikamil Napiah, Director General of the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), said that the project aligns with the “2030 National Space Policy,” and if Malaysia can establish a regional leadership position in the booming space industry, it could contribute more than RM10 billion to the country’s GDP.
He said: "Three parties have expressed interest, and one of them submitted a complete feasibility study last week. The report will be evaluated within 90 days after submission.
“Foreign investors interested in participating must partner with local companies and must obtain approval from the respective state governments for land matters.” He stated this when speaking to media after handing over funds to repair the local Parit 5 Timur (Tengah) surau today.
He emphasized that Malaysia’s location on the equator provides it with a unique geographical advantage, enabling more efficient rocket launches and reduced fuel costs.
Building on this advantage, Azlikamil pointed out that the project also plans to develop Malaysia’s own Earth observation satellites, build a space city, and provide rocket launch services.
The launch pad will be constructed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with both the government and private investors sharing the costs. The project is expected to officially commence construction in early 2029 after all approvals and preliminary work are completed.
Azlikamil said: "Aside from attracting investment, this project will also bring significant economic spillover effects to local communities through new infrastructure, energy projects, and job opportunities."
Datuk Azlikamil Napiah, Director General of the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), said that the project aligns with the “2030 National Space Policy,” and if Malaysia can establish a regional leadership position in the booming space industry, it could contribute more than RM10 billion to the country’s GDP.
He said: "Three parties have expressed interest, and one of them submitted a complete feasibility study last week. The report will be evaluated within 90 days after submission.
“Foreign investors interested in participating must partner with local companies and must obtain approval from the respective state governments for land matters.” He stated this when speaking to media after handing over funds to repair the local Parit 5 Timur (Tengah) surau today.
He emphasized that Malaysia’s location on the equator provides it with a unique geographical advantage, enabling more efficient rocket launches and reduced fuel costs.
Building on this advantage, Azlikamil pointed out that the project also plans to develop Malaysia’s own Earth observation satellites, build a space city, and provide rocket launch services.
The launch pad will be constructed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with both the government and private investors sharing the costs. The project is expected to officially commence construction in early 2029 after all approvals and preliminary work are completed.
Azlikamil said: "Aside from attracting investment, this project will also bring significant economic spillover effects to local communities through new infrastructure, energy projects, and job opportunities."