Malaysia must produce more scientists, innovators to unlock space economy potential
KOTA KINABALU (May 10): Malaysia must inspire and produce more scientists, engineers and innovators to fully realise its potential in the booming global space economy, said Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang.
Speaking at the third series of MOSTI Tech Talks at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on Friday, themed 'Malaysia's Journey to Space: Inspiring the Next Generation of Pioneers,' Chang emphasized that the space sector is not only a technological milestone but also a key driver of economic competitiveness, national sovereignty and sustainable growth.
He highlighted that Malaysia's space economy recorded RM1.05 billion in revenue in 2023, but noted that the real potential is far greater, with the global market projected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2040.
'To reach this goal, we need to cultivate more local scientists, engineers, and innovators. I urge students to seize this opportunity by deepening their engagement in STEM fields,' he said.
Chang added that MOSTI will continue supporting this aspiration through policies, funding and cross-sector collaboration.
'Together, we will position Malaysia as a regional high-tech leader in line with the Madani values and our aim of becoming a high-income nation by 2030,' he added.
The programme also featured a presentation by Dato' Kamarul Redzuan Muhamed, CEO of Uzma Berhad Group, titled 'From Oilfields to Orbit: Why Space is Malaysia's Next Great Frontier.' He stressed that the space sector offers not only technological and scientific opportunities but also significant prospects in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Kamarul said the rapid expansion of the global space economy — fueled by demand for communication, navigation, and earth observation technologies — means satellite data will soon become indispensable across industries from agriculture and disaster management to logistics and urban planning.
'As an entrepreneur, I see this as a golden opportunity for Malaysia's younger generation to innovate and create value in the space ecosystem. It starts by instilling curiosity and showing students that the space sector goes beyond satellites and astronauts — it includes roles for engineers, data analysts, scientists, policymakers, and tech entrepreneurs,' he said.
The event concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session moderated by Dr Elena Woo Lai Leng, research officer at the Malaysian Space Agency's (MYSA) Space Engineering and Technology Division.
The third edition of the Tech Talks programme drew an overwhelming response with over 250 participants, including UMS staff and students.
MOSTI's Tech Talks series has become an important platform for spreading science, technology, and innovation (STI) knowledge while encouraging direct interaction between ministry leadership and the academic community.
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