KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — The development of a space launch site in Malaysia is still at the feasibility study and site evaluation stage, said Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal.
He said the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) has so far received a feasibility report from the Pahang government, which is expected to be reviewed soon by a multi-agency evaluation committee.
“Earlier this year, Mosti also received an interim study report from the Sabah government. The federal government is currently awaiting the full report before beginning the evaluation process,” he said during Minister’s Question Time at Dewan Rakyat today.
Yusof said this in reply to Tan Kok Wai’s (Harapan-Cheras) question about updates on the initiative to build a rocket launchpad in Malaysia, and a list of projects or memoranda of understanding (MOUs) that have been signed.
The deputy minister said any cooperation related to the rocket launchpad development would be discussed through existing collaboration platforms with international agencies such as the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and China National Space Administration.
Yusof also expressed confidence that such a project would strengthen Malaysia’s position as a strategic hub in the regional aerospace industry, while generating economic benefits through new jobs, technology transfer, and enhanced national competitiveness on the global stage.
