SUNGAI BESAR, Malaysia is on track to host Southeast Asia’s first rocket launch pad by 2029, with three shortlisted sites located in Pahang, Sarawak, and Sabah.
Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) Director-General Datuk Azlikamil Napiah said the initiative, part of the National Space Policy 2030, could contribute more than RM10 billion to the nation’s GDP if Malaysia positions itself as a regional hub in the growing space industry.
“Three parties have expressed interest so far, with one submitting a full feasibility study last week. The report will be reviewed within 90 days. Any foreign investors must partner with local firms and secure land approval from the respective state governments,” he said after officiating the handover of upgrading works at Surau Parit 5 Timur (Tengah), Jalan Baru, today.
He highlighted Malaysia’s strategic advantage of being located near the Equator, which allows more fuel-efficient rocket launches. Beyond the launch pad, the project also envisions building a domestic earth observation satellite, a space city, and offering launch services.
Developed as a public-private partnership, costs will be shared between the government and private investors, with construction expected to begin in early 2029 once approvals are finalised.
“Besides drawing investments, the project will also create significant economic benefits for local communities through infrastructure development, energy projects and new job opportunities,” he said.
Earlier, Azlikamil handed over five upgraded surau under the MADANI Adopted Village programme, involving a total allocation of RM315,000. The surau projects, completed between June 9 and Aug 8, include Surau Ehsaniah (Parit 2 Timur), Surau Tuan Guru Haji Bahaudin (Parit 3 Timur), Surau Haji Mohamad (Parit 3 1/2 Timur), Surau Nur Al-Iman (Parit 4 Timur), and Surau Parit 5 Timur (Tengah).
