Pahang: The development of the International Space Port in Pahang is expected to be completed as early as the next three to five years, said state Investment, Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Committee chairman Datuk Mohamad Nizar Mohamad Najib. He said the facility, which will be the first international rocket launch site in Southeast Asia, is expected to create 2,350 job opportunities and generate economic spillover effects, particularly in the tourism and research sectors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Nizar mentioned that one of the optimal locations for development is along the Equator on the east coast, especially Pahang, and Sabah, during the State Legislative Assembly sitting at Wisma Sri Pahang. This statement was in response to a supplementary question from Chan Chun Kuang (PH-Semambu) regarding the expected completion timeline and job creation potential for the project.

Mohamad Nizar further stated that the Pahang State Development Corporation (PKNP) signed a Letter of Intent with China Great Wall Industry Corporation and Lestari Angkasa Sdn Bhd on April 15 to establish strategic cooperation in the development of the space technology sector in Malaysia. As part of the feasibility study and planning phase for the project, PKNP and Lestari Angkasa Sdn Bhd will conduct a working visit to Wenchang Space City in Hainan, China, in May.

Meanwhile, the state government is currently evaluating two proposals to develop an Aerospace City, covering the areas of Gebeng, Kuantan, and Pekan. In December 2023, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang noted that Pahang and Sabah are among the states shortlisted as potential sites for the rocket launch facility.