KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is not competing with its Asean neighbours in developing its space sector, says Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal
He said that Malaysia collaborates with neighbouring countries and is not in competition regarding interests or trajectory, adding that while Thailand and Singapore have signed agreements under the international Artemis Accords, Malaysia has yet to do so.
According to the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa), the Artemis Accords provide a common set of principles to enhance the governance of civil exploration and use of outer space.
"Malaysia has not yet been bound under the Accords, as we are still reviewing the legal suitability for us, but we will move in that direction when necessary," he said in response to Tan Kar Hing (PH-Gopeng).
He added that the National Physical Planning Council agreed on August 15, 2024, that the development of space launch facilities as national infrastructure must align with the Town and Country Planning Act 1976.
"These guidelines must be referenced in the planning of launch facilities development in Malaysia," he said.
He also mentioned that the National Remote Sensing Satellite Development Programme (PSPJN), approved in 2023, would have its satellite begin operations in 2028.
PSPJN is an effort to ensure the country's capabilities in space technology are strengthened, in line with the National Space Policy 2030.
The programme aims to enhance the country's ownership of strategic data through its satellite operations, reducing dependence on external data sources.
"Once operational, off-tech payments will be made periodically based on the amount of data received and verified by the government," said the deputy minister.
