Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said today the country is accelerating its efforts to strengthen space-based connectivity as a key enabler of national progress, with a focus on deploying Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites through the newly launched ALTEL Digital Integrated Sdn Bhd (ALTEL Digital).
The initiative is expected to support Malaysia’s transformation across critical sectors such as digital infrastructure, manufacturing, smart agriculture, and maritime operations, while ensuring that all technological infrastructure and data remain securely anchored within the country.
“To safeguard our national data and uphold digital sovereignty, ALTEL Digital will fully establish and operate key infrastructure domestically,” Fahmi said at the launch event in Kuala Lumpur.
“All user data will be processed and stored within Malaysia to ensure compliance with national security standards,” he added.
ALTEL Digital is a strategic joint venture between Malaysia’s Altel Group and China’s Zhejiang Geespace Technology Co. Ltd. (Geespace), aimed at delivering integrated satellite and telecommunications services across Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region. Operations are expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The company will establish a fully localised ecosystem, including a Ground Earth Station, a Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) Centre, and an Application Data Centre, all within Malaysian borders.
Fahmi said the venture is also deeply committed to nurturing local talent through the establishment of a Centre of Excellence, which will act as a national training hub for satellite technology, engineering and operations.
He noted that ALTEL Digital is collaborating with higher education institutions to introduce Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes and satellite engineering modules. This, he said, will help equip the next generation with skills vital for sustaining Malaysia’s ambitions in space technology.
The company’s satellite services will span four key areas: Internet of Things (IoT) applications, high-precision positioning, satellite broadband and backhaul, and direct-to-cellular communications.
“These services are expected to significantly benefit key national sectors such as smart ports, maritime shipping, mobility, advanced manufacturing, precision agriculture, smart energy and consumer electronics,” said Fahmi.
He emphasised that ALTEL Digital’s mission is aligned with several national policies, including the National Space Policy 2030, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Policy, the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), and the Cyber Security Act 2024.
The minister added that Malaysia’s evolving space ecosystem will not only support domestic needs but also position the country as a regional leader in secure, sustainable, and innovative satellite solutions.
“We are not just aiming to consume advanced satellite technologies but to become a capable developer and provider of these services for the region,” he said. – April 18, 2025
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