Kuching, 15 October 2024 – The Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) has signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MEASAT Global Berhad (MEASAT),
Malaysia’s premier satellite solutions provider to enhance Sarawak’s space industry
development. The signing, witnessed by YB Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Minister for Utility
and Telecommunication. The MoU exchange ceremony will follow during the
International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2024 on 16 October 2024,
officiated by YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Premier of Sarawak,
at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.
Under this MoU, MEASAT will serve as a consultant to the Sarawak Space Industry and
Satellite Committee (SISCOM) and offer industry expertise to shape policies, guidelines
and the future of space and satellite industries in Sarawak. This also includes training
and talent development, leveraging MEASAT’s 30 over years of experience in satellite
management and service commercialisation.
As part of the collaboration, SMA and MEASAT will explore joint projects, including
satellite operations and management, the development of space, satellite, and launching
policies, guidelines, training, and industry development. The private-public partnership
will bring economic benefit to the State while enhancing Sarawak’s satellite capabilities.
“The collaboration between SMA and MEASAT marks a pivotal moment for Sarawak’s
ambitions in the space industry. By harnessing MEASAT’s satellite expertise, we are
paving the way for greater connectivity, particularly in rural areas, while laying the
foundation for Sarawak to manage its own satellite systems. This partnership is key to
achieving our 2030 goals of satellite self-sufficiency, which will also contribute towards
elevating our policymaking capabilities with advanced data collection and analysis,”
commented YB Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication.
“SMA is committed to fostering open collaboration to explore innovative strategies for
enhancing Sarawak’s connectivity and strengthening its digital infrastructure. SMA’s
partnership with MEASAT is a significant step forward in building a robust space industry
in Sarawak. With MEASAT’s vast experience, this collaboration will allow us to undertake
joint projects, nurture local talent and expertise in Sarawak’s nascent aerospace sector,
and position the state as a leader in satellite technology, besides driving overall
economic growth,” said Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng, General Manager, Sarawak
Multimedia Authority.
“MEASAT is honoured to be part of this initiative with SMA to advance Sarawak’s space
ambitions. By providing our industry expertise, we aim to contribute to the development
of satellite technologies that benefit Sarawak’s communities and government operations,
ultimately supporting the state’s broader objectives,” added Yau Chyong Lim, Chief
Operating Officer, MEASAT.
