Tokyo: Japan and Malaysia are poised to co-create a sustainable and commercially viable space ecosystem, aiming to address key societal challenges in both countries while jointly working toward a better future.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nakamura Takehiro, director of Bangkok office, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), said this shared ambition builds on decades of collaboration between JAXA and the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), most recently reinforced by a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) in 2023.

JAXA is committed to this vision by advancing research and applications of space-based data, supporting satellite development capabilities, and providing technical expertise to bolster national space ecosystems. This includes supporting long-term national strategies such as Malaysia Space Exploration 2030 (MSE2030), which aims to position Malaysia’s space sector as a key driver of competitiveness and national well-being.

The MSE2030 policy is designed to reduce costs, improve service delivery, a
nd drive innovation across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, environmental management, and mining, leveraging space technology to support national development. The signing of the MoC marks a significant step forward in implementation and affirms the deepening of bilateral cooperation between Japan and Malaysia through space activities.

Takehiro also highlighted the strong potential of the bilateral partnership demonstrated during the Technomart Malaysia-Japan: Space Tech Collaboration event held at the Malaysia Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka on May 15, 2025. Technomart served as a strategic platform to promote tangible business outcomes across a broad range of sectors.

These sectors included technologies, products, services, and solutions in satellite-based Earth observation, the development and manufacturing of small satellites, rocket launch services and infrastructure for satellite deployment, and ventures in lunar exploration.

Takehiro added that as Malaysia invests in its i
ndustrial base and develops future-ready talent, and as Japan pursues deeper international partnerships, both countries are positioned to lead the next wave of space innovation by addressing regional social challenges through cooperation and technology.