KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Turkiye are currently engaged in discussions for a potential bilateral agreement in the field of space technology development, according to Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup.
The deputy minister of science, technology, and innovation stated that the Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa) and the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) are leading the negotiations.
Kurup emphasized that the collaboration aims to share expertise and cultivate talent to support the local satellite manufacturing sector, as he responded to a query regarding Malaysia’s progress in launching a new satellite, raised by Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau) on October 30th.
Furthermore, Kurup revealed that 10 local space technology companies have established the Malaysian Space Industry Corporation (Masic) as part of their joint efforts.
Masic’s primary objective is to gather domestic space industry players under a single platform, fostering collaboration and advancing Malaysia’s space program.
“The ultimate goal is to establish a vibrant space industry ecosystem that showcases Malaysia’s capabilities, attracting investments and talent from across the globe,” explained Kurup.
Puah also sought information regarding the progress of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) and letters of intent (LOI) inked by Mysa during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (Lima ’23) in May, aimed at boosting space technology.
In response, Joseph conveyed that the projects are already underway under the supervision of a task force within Mysa.
He further noted that once all four MOUs and three LOIs are fully implemented, they are projected to contribute a minimum of RM44 million to the local economy.
Furthermore, Kurup highlighted that the Ministry, together with the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry, is currently conducting a study to assess the potential and capacity of the domestic space industry.
Kurup clarified, “Considering the high costs associated with space technology development, our goal is to assist the local industry in becoming a major supplier of satellite components and gradually expand from there.”
