Malaysia in talks with Turkiye on possible space technology agreement

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is in talks with Turkiye over a possible bilateral agreement in developing space technology, says Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup.

The science, technology and innovation deputy minister said the cross-governmental discussions were being spearheaded by the Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa), together with Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT).

“This collaboration will focus on the possible sharing of expertise and development of talent to help produce local experts in satellite manufacturing technology,” he said.

Kurup said this when replying to a question from Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau) on Monday (Oct 30) over the progress of Malaysia’s goal of launching a new satellite.

In reply, Kurup also said that at least 10 local space technology companies have joined hands to form the Malaysian Space Industry Corporation (Masic).

He added that Masic aims to unite local space industry players under a single platform and work collaboratively to develop Malaysia’s space programme.

“The goal will be to create a dynamic space industry ecosystem that promotes the capabilities of Malaysia’s space industry to attract investment and talent from around the world,” said Kurup.

Puah also asked about the progress of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) and letters of intent (LOI) that had been signed by Mysa for the purpose of boosting space technology, back in May during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (Lima ’23).

To this, Joseph said the projects were already underway and was being supervised by a task force under Mysa.

“Once all four of the MOU and three LOI are fully realised, we can expect them to contribute at least RM44mil to the local economy,” he said.

He added that his ministry, together with the investment, trade and industry ministry were now conducting a study on the capacity and potential of local space industry.

“Due to the high cost of space technology development, our goal will be to help the local industry become a key supplier of satellite components and grow from there,” said Kurup.