BRISTOL: Sarawak is exploring plans to develop and potentially launch its own Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite as part of efforts to strengthen data capabilities and telecommunications infrastructure.
Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative, led by SMD Semiconductor with potential partners from the United Kingdom, aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“We are exploring efforts to develop and potentially launch our own Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite with international partners such as the UK.
“This technology supports critical data capabilities that drive connectivity and real-world applications, particularly in expanding high-speed and low-latency access to rural and underserved areas,” he said during a semiconductor strategic engagement session with the University of Bristol here.
He said ownership of the satellite would enable Sarawak to make more precise, hyper-local data-driven decisions in areas such as forest management, maritime monitoring and early flood warning systems.
To support the ecosystem, the state government has established the Sarawak Aerospace Advisory Council and the Sarawak Space Agency to ensure policy coordination and long-term planning for the sector.
“Climate data is no longer just a supporting tool; it is a strategic asset for us,” he added.
