Kuala lumpur: Malaysia needs to focus on developing high-value technologies, components, and services to strengthen its position in the global space economy's supply chain and reap the economic benefits of the sector, said Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) director-general Datuk Azlikamil Napiah. He said the focus is more strategic, given that the development of space technology requires large investments, is high-risk, and is growing rapidly.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, citing the National Space Industry Capability Study 2023 report, approximately 79 local companies are involved in space technology-related activities that contribute at least RM6.21 billion to the national economy. The figure is projected to increase to RM10 billion and create approximately 5,000 new job opportunities by 2030. 'There is no need to go to Mars or the moon if it does not bring value to our economy. We want to take only what is best and beneficial to the country,' Azlikamil told Bernama.
Azlikamil highlighted Malaysia's strong foundation in developing the space industry through strengths in the electrical and electronics, aerospace, and downstream space sectors, which have been developed since the country began harnessing space tech in 1988. He emphasized strategic and selective implementation due to limited funding compared to other countries, choosing developments that bring economic value to Malaysia.
The space economy is divided into three main segments: upstream, midstream, and downstream. Malaysia is currently stronger in the downstream segment, particularly in the use of satellite data for agriculture, forestry, disaster management, mapping, and communications sectors. Azlikamil noted that Malaysia has embarked on developing the space sector through downstream activities that meet user needs and is now focusing on completing the ecosystem with upstream activities.
In an effort to strengthen the country's technological sovereignty, Malaysia plans to implement the National Remote Sensing Satellite Development Project (PSPJN) through public-private partnership, with a satellite launch targeted for the end of 2028 or 2029. Azlikamil stressed the importance of building local capacity and capabilities to guarantee technological sovereignty.
Global cooperation is considered a catalyst for Malaysia's space technology advancement, as Azlikamil pointed out the need for international collaboration due to the rapid pace of technological advancements. Malaysia is intensifying cooperation with countries like Japan and China and plans to expand to others, including Italy and France. However, certain technologies with dual-purpose uses need independent development.
Azlikamil expressed the ambition for local companies to become suppliers of space tech and services to Southeast Asian and global markets, aiming for Malaysia to be the top player in the ASEAN space ecosystem by 2030. He highlighted the increasing demand for space technology to address challenges such as natural disasters, food security, climate change, and maritime safety. The success of the space sector, he noted, is measured by the added value it provides to people's well-being and the country's development.