Sabah aims to build Southeast Asia’s first space centre

SABAH is exploring the possibility of establishing Southeast Asia’s first space centre, with a feasibility study currently in progress. 

The initiative, if approved, could position the state as a leader in the regional space industry, said Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif.

“This project is in the feasibility stage. We are waiting for the final results of the study,” Mohd Arifin said during the launch of the Mobile Exhibition “Experiencing Science: Enlightening Innovation” in Membakut.

“Once completed, the study will be presented to the ministry for further refinement before it is submitted to the Sabah cabinet for review and consideration. We aim to conclude this process within the year.”

Mohd Arifin added that the centre’s goal is to make Sabah an ASEAN hub for satellite assembly and other space-related activities while producing approximately 300 products connected to the space industry.

“This initiative will create many job and business opportunities, enabling Sabah to contribute meaningfully to advancements in science and technology,” he said.

The idea of a space centre in Sabah is not new, as Mohd Arifin had previously proposed it. However, the ambitious plan was initially met with scepticism from some communities, who highlighted Sabah’s ongoing infrastructure challenges as a more pressing issue.

Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasised the economic potential of the proposed site for the space centre, calling it a strategic choice.

“The selected location in Sabah is highly suitable and has the potential to generate substantial economic benefits for the country,” he said.

In addition to serving as a launch facility, the project is expected to benefit the shipping and logistics industries during its early phases.

“Our shipping and logistics sectors will see gains in the first five years. Beyond that, we aim to establish a ‘Space Industrial Park,’ similar to KKIP, to create a full ecosystem for the space industry,” Mohd Hanafiah said.

“This ecosystem will provide opportunities for locals to enter the fields of science, technology, and innovation,” he added. - January 24, 2025.