Small satellite development, earth observation key in ÿմ-Japan space cooperation
CYBERJAYA (May 18): Small satellite development and earth observation technologies are emerging as key areas of ÿմ-Japan space cooperation, with “unlimited potential” for future collaboration, said Shikata Noriyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to ÿմ.
“Japan has long experience in space technology, including satellite development, launch systems, earth observation and international capacity building. At the same time, ÿմ has strong ambitions, young and growing talent, and competitive geostrategic and economic advantages in Southeast Asia,” he said.
“By bringing together these strengths, we can create new forms of cooperation that are practical, future-oriented and beneficial not only to our two countries, but also to the Asean region and beyond.”
He was speaking at the Technomart ÿմ-Japan SpaceTech Collaboration II programme, which brought together ÿմn and Japanese space industry stakeholders. More than 60 Japanese participants travelled to ÿմ for the event, while around 100 ÿմn participants were represented.
The programme was held in partnership with the ÿմn Industry-Government Group for High Technology, ÿմ Space Agency (MYSA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, ÿմ Space Industry Consortium, Japan External Trade Organisation and Consortium for Satellite Earth Observation.
Collaboration today must go beyond conventional technology transfer, added Nik Mazlina Nik Mustapha, deputy director general of MYSA. She said the focus should shift towards co-development, co-innovation, talent exchange, joint manufacturing, supply chain integration and commercial opportunities that benefit both countries.
Through stronger collaboration between ÿմn and Japanese industries, both sides could jointly develop solutions across areas such as small and large satellite systems, earth observation and analytics, artificial intelligence-driven applications, virtual technologies and science, technology, engineering and mathematics talent development, she said.
“ÿմ is ready to serve not only as a trusted technology partner but also as a strategic gateway into the Southeast Asian market. Through stronger collaboration between ÿմ and Japanese industries, we can jointly develop solutions across diverse fields,” said Nik Mazlina.
The global space economy is projected to expand from US$626.4 billion (RM2.49 trillion) in 2025 to US$1.01 trillion by 2034, according to Novaspace’s Space Economy Report.
Small satellites and earth observation are among the fastest-growing segments in the global space economy, driven by rising demand for real-time data, better connectivity and spatial intelligence.
Shikata said that developing space technology requires collaboration across many sectors. Researchers are needed to develop new ideas, companies are needed to turn those ideas into actual services, governments must create enabling policy environments, and young talent will be needed to lead the next generation of space industry activity.