KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will ratify two treaties to mark its entry as an emerging space nation, says Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.
He said these treaties concern the peaceful and responsible exploration of space.
"The ratification of both treaties is the first step to show Malaysia's transparency in managing its space programme with an emphasis on safety and peace.
"It will align with efforts and commitments to protect the nation's interest while sending a clear diplomatic message to the world, including Asean, that Malaysia is committed and responsible regarding its space activities," he said
Chang said this in response to a question from Young Syefura Othman (PH-Bentong) in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Feb 18).
The decision was recently made by the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA).
The treaties include the Treaty on the Principles Governing Activities of States in the Exploration of Outer Space, the Moon and other Celestial Bodies (1967), and the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space (1975).
Regarding the development of the nation's remote sensing satellite programme, Chang said an evaluation management laboratory will be held with the shortlisted private company between February 18 and 21.
He said the meeting aims to optimise the implementation and development of the remote sensing satellite programme through a joint Public-Private Partnership.
The agreement with the shortlisted company will be finalised once details for the development of the satellite are confirmed.
"Considering that it will take three years to develop the satellite, it is expected to be operational in 2028," he said.
Off-take periodic payments will be made to the company based on data received from the satellite and verified by the government.
Currently, Chang said the government spends RM20mil annually to buy remote sensing images from abroad.
"We are forced to buy satellite images from foreign countries as we currently do not have the capabilities," he added.
He noted that RM50mil has been set aside to develop the nation's remote sensing satellite programme.
On January 15, Malaysia's remote sensing satellite, UzmaSAT-1, was successfully launched into low orbit by SpaceX's Falcon 9 from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States.
UzmaSAT-1 marks the 13th satellite under Malaysia's supervision.
The high-resolution satellite, developed by the local company Uzma Berhad, will provide data and information on the country's surface.
