Ipoh: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) is conducting a preliminary feasibility study on proposals from Sabah and Pahang to identify suitable locations in the two states for the development of a rocket launch site. Its minister, Chang Lih Kang, stated that the study would take some time as it requires evaluation from multiple angles.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, two states have expressed interest and submitted their applications-Sabah and Pahang. The feasibility study on their proposals is currently underway. Chang emphasized the various aspects that need examination in this feasibility study, indicating that the process will be time-consuming. He expressed hope that construction work for the rocket launch site could begin as early as 2026, citing the growing demand for satellite launches and the insufficiency of existing launch sites worldwide.

In a previous report on February 15 last year, it was highlighted that Malaysia was in a race to establish the first rocket launch site in Southeast Asia. Chang noted that Malaysia possesses several advantages, such as being located outside earthquake zones, the absence of active volcanoes, advanced technological capabilities, and a well-developed electronics and electrical industry.

Regarding the MOSTI Tech Talks programme, Chang mentioned that it is part of the ministry's efforts to engage university students to better understand the ministry's roles and functions. The programme aims to increase student awareness of current developments in the science community, encouraging them to pursue careers in science and technology. It began in April and has so far involved Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).