The state of Sarawak is considering working with Russia in rocket and satellite launches, leveraging its location near the equator. Bernama cites state Premier Abang Johari Openg as saying that the idea was brought up by Russian ambassador to Malaysia, Naiyl Latypov, during a courtesy call last week.
According to the report, Abang Johari said Sarawak must capitalise on growing international interest in the state by implementing effective policies and ensuring clear development plans. “I mentioned that we require more engineers and are prepared to explore collaborations to develop a larger pool of professionals in the field”, he said, regarding the call.
Image: Abang Jo / Facebook Previously, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) shortlisted Sabah, Sarawak and Pahang as possible locations for a rocket launch pad. The Malaysian Space Agency had also previously said that it aimed for Malaysia to set up the first rocket launch pad in Southeast Asia by 2029. This would be in line with the National Space Policy 2030, making the country a strategic hub in the regional space industry.
