Malaysia may soon become the first country in Southeast Asia to have a rocket launch site if a proposal in Pahang gets approval.
A company working with the Pahang state government has submitted a full feasibility study for the project.
Feasibility report under review
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang told China Press that the company has officially handed in a comprehensive feasibility report.
The report covers environmental impact, soil conditions, social impact and radiological assessments.
We are still reviewing the report. If there are shortcomings, we will ask the applicant to make improvements,” he told the Chinese daily.
Private sector to fund project
The government introduced guidelines in 2024 to allow private companies to invest in and build rocket launch facilities, while the government acts as regulator.
Previously, four companies, including local and foreign joint ventures, had expressed interest in the project.
Chang stressed that the rocket launch site would be fully funded by the private sector, with the government not providing financial support.
He also welcomed other private firms to submit their proposals.
Aims to begin construction in 2026
Earlier, Chang revealed that Malaysia aims to begin construction of the rocket launch site in 2026.
If successful, Malaysia hopes to become the ninth country or territory in the world with a space launch facility.
At present, the eight countries or territories with space launch sites are the United States, South Korea, Russia, Norway, New Zealand, China, French Guiana and Japan.
Rising demand for satellite launches
Chang noted that demand for satellite launches is expected to grow in the future.
In the past, satellite launches were mainly for communication and monitoring companies.
Now, more industries rely on satellites, including the automotive sector to support GPS functions, as well as watch and mobile phone companies.
