Kuala Lumpur:The 2026 World Space Week (WSW), themed 'Rocket Revolution', will offer insights into advances in rocket technology throughout October.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) director-general Datuk Azlikamil Napiah emphasized the event's goal of enhancing public understanding of space technology, particularly rocket technology, which is still not widely known. He expressed hopes that greater public knowledge could drive technological development within Malaysia.
WSW is globally observed from October 4 to 10, but Malaysia extends its activities for the entire month as part of 'World Space Week Malaysian Chapter' to foster interest in space science and technology. The objectives of WSW 2026 include demonstrating how technological advances enable space missions and address various challenges.
Azlikamil noted the importance of sparking technological interest among the younger generation to establish a foundation for local expertise by 2030. He highlighted the need for education in relevant subjects starting at the school level and progressing through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and university programs.
Discussing the opportunities the 'Rocket Revolution' theme could bring to ASEAN, Azlikamil pointed out that regional cooperation could bolster technological capabilities, particularly in developing rocket launch services. Such developments could spur the growth of new services and support local companies in the Southeast Asian region.
Despite the complexity and costs, Azlikamil mentioned that rocket launch programs, with proper planning, can yield significant economic returns, as seen in other countries' experiences. Malaysia's space industry has been expanding, with 79 local companies in 2023 and a sector value of RM6 billion, aiming for RM10 billion by 2030. Additionally, 2,500 new jobs have been created, reaching half of the 2030 target of 5,000 jobs.
The growth of the space industry is expected to contribute to Malaysia's economy and offer new economic opportunities across Southeast Asia.