Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - Malaysia is poised to become the first Southeast Asian nation with its own rocket launch pad by 2029, with three locations selected in Pahang, Sarawak, and Sabah.
Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) director-general Azlikamil Napiah said the project, aligned with the National Space Policy 2030, can generate over 10 billion RM (2.37 billion USD) for Gross Domestic Product if Malaysia establishes itself as a regional leader in the burgeoning space industry.
Interested foreign investors must collaborate with local companies and obtain approval from the respective state governments on land matters, he said, adding that so far, three parties have shown interest. One of them submitted a full feasibility study report. The report will be evaluated within 90 days of submission.
He emphasised that Malaysia's geographical location along the Equator provides a distinct advantage, enabling more efficient rocket launches with reduced fuel costs.
Building on this advantage, Azlikamil said the project also aims to establish Malaysia's own earth observation satellite, develop a space city, and offer rocket launch services.
It will be built as a public-private partnership, sharing costs between the government and private investors. Work is expected to commence in early 2029, after all required approvals and groundwork are finalised, he added./.
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