Malaysia aims to become the first country in Southeast Asia to have its own missile launch site by 2029, according to Datuk Azlikamil Napiah, Director General of the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA).
This is part of the 2030 National Space Strategy, which is expected to contribute more than 10 billion ringgit, equivalent to more than 2.3 billion USD, to the gross domestic product if Kuala Lumpur successfully affirms its leading role in the space industry.
According to Bernama news agency, the Malaysian government is considering three locations to build a space missile launch site in the states of Pahang, Sarawak and Sabah.
Mr. Azlikamil said that three units have expressed interest, one of which has submitted a full feasibility report. This report will be assessed within 90 days from the date of submission.
Mr. Azlikamil emphasized Malaysia's geographical location right on the equator as a great advantage, helping to launch missiles more efficiently and save fuel costs.
The project not only focuses on building a launch site but also aims to develop a separate Earth observation satellite, build a "space city" and provide commercial launch service.
The plan will be implemented according to the public-private partnership (PPP) model, in which costs are shared between the government and investors.
The construction of the launch site is expected to start in early 2029, after completing all approval procedures and infrastructure preparation.
Mr. Azlikamil emphasized that in addition to investment benefits, the project will bring significant economic impacts to the local community, from building new infrastructure, developing energy projects to creating many job opportunities.
