ANGKASA-X has launched its first homegrown A-SEANSAT-PG1 satellite, strengthening the development of the space-tech ecosystem in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
The launch was broadcasted-live across four locations in Malaysia; the University Science Malaysia (USM) in Georgetown, Penang; Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) headquarter and GreenPro Capital office in Kuala Lumpur; and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) in Kuching, Sarawak.
It was also streamed from Vostochny Cosmodrome – witnessed by Penang Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow in USM and Director General of MYSA, Gs. Tuan Haji Azlikamil Napiah at MYSA’s Headquarters.
The team leading this maiden ANGKASA-X satellite launch are Dr. William Lim, Group Executive Director and COO; and Ir. Norhizam Bin Hamzah, Group Chief Technology Officer, with the engineering team.
With the launch of the PG1 satellite, ANGKASA-X says it will leverage on its technological know-how to lead the way as part of its innovative Satellite-as-a-Service (SaaS) offering, to create constellations of Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites along the equator, designed in Malaysia by Malaysians.
These LEO satellites will work together to achieve the company’s visionary initiatives by providing affordable remote-sensing services and revolutionising internet-connectivity services to millions in the region, particularly within the rural areas in Asia, bridging the digital divide.
“The launch of the PG1, Penang 1 satellite is a momentous occasion for Malaysia, propelling us towards a new era of technological advancement and establishing our position in the global SpaceTech ecosystem. I’m pleased to say that Malaysia is the first country in Southeast Asia to design, assemble and launch homegrown LEO satellites, the first in 2009 with RazakSAT-1, and now PG1 in 2023.” said Chow Kon Yeow, the Chief Minister of Penang.
“This landmark achievement not only enhances data connectivity but also opens doors for innovation and economic growth. By investing in satellite & space technology, we will drive talent development, create high-value jobs, develop new space technology solutions to sell globally and attract domestic and international investment and talent, positively impacting the nation’s economy. This launch also fosters and supports a digitally empowered nation and reinforces our status as a leading player in the space industry. We commend ANGKASA-X for their visionary efforts, and we are excited about the boundless possibilities this satellite launch brings towards Malaysia’s future,” he added.
These satellites will bring forth highly demanded data for governments, security agencies, and the private sector on weather forecasting, aircraft tracking, maritime surveillance & security and real-time imaging on locations prone to potential dangers like landslides, deforestation, and other natural disasters.
Images from the satellites will play a vital role in mitigating risks and aiding in disaster relief efforts to save millions of lives and also provide specific geographical features that will assist town planners in making informed decisions for effective and holistic development.
Tuan Haji Azlimakil, Director General of MYSA who was present during the launch expressed his appreciation and congratulations to ANGKASA-X. He stated, “Today’s launch perfectly aligns with MYSA’s objectives and sets a great example of how we can achieve our goals together in cooperation with the private sector. We are therefore proud to be part of this highly exemplary endeavour, working hand in hand with ANGKASA-X, a visionary company that has demonstrated vast technical know-how and a commitment to excellence.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Sean Seah, Group Executive Chairman and CEO of ANGKASA-X said, “Today marks an extraordinary milestone for ANGKASA-X and our dedicated team of Malaysian engineers.
It exemplifies the incredible talent and their brilliant engineering skills coupled with their relentless pursuit of innovation to propel the ASEAN space economy.”
He further emphasised the importance of this maiden launch, stating, “Connectivity is a necessity for the betterment of human-kind. With the launch of PG1 and our subsequent satellites, we are committed to deliver social inclusion by offering our technologically innovative Satellite-as-a-Service or SaaS, to countries in Southeast Asia, particularly to the over 50% remote areas population that are currently deprived of any means of internet access. Our mission is eventually to bring affordable satellite services to all, especially those underserved regions along the Equator.”
Dr. Seah highlighted the significance of this paradigm shift, stating, “We are witnessing a pivotal moment in the emergence of a new space era, where securing space orbital slots, developing space technology talents, R&D, building & launching homegrown satellites and engineering satellite solutions & applications will ultimately benefit Malaysia, Southeast Asia and beyond.”
The launch of PG1 is aligned with the objectives of the 12th Malaysia Plan by contributing to the national development and the advancement of future talent.
This advancement will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and attract high-paying jobs, particularly in the space industry, thus nurturing talent development in Malaysia.
