PENANG made history today as Angkasa-X, the homegrown space tech company, launched its maiden satellite, A-SEANSAT-PG1 (PG1) into space today.
The launching ceremony of the A-SEANSAT-PG1 was streamed live from Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia across four locations in Malaysia, namely Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in George Town, Penang, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) headquarters and GreenPro Capital office in Kuala Lumpur.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present at USM today to witness the historic moment, said the launching of A-SEANSAT-PG1 (PG1) was extremely significant to the state of Penang.
“As we stand on the verge of witnessing the launch of the Penang1 satellite tonight, let us remember that this is just the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
“It symbolises our unwavering commitment to continuous growth and exploration in the realm of space technology.
“Together, let us embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead and work hand in hand to realise the vision of Penang2030, making Penang A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’.
“Let us continue to strive for excellence, innovation, and progress as we propel Penang into a future where the sky is no longer the limit,” Chow said during the launching ceremony which was broadcast live.
Chow shared that the launching of PG1 would be instrumental in achieving the Penang2030 vision.
Since taking office as Chief Minister in 2018, Chow said the Penang2030 vision has been his personal invitation to all Penangites to collaborate with the government and one another to elevate the state to greater heights.
He expresssed his joy in seeing that Angkasa-X has answered the call (Penang2030) as the launch of the satellite would contribute significantly to achieving these objectives.
“As the first satellite launched by Angkasa-X, it is aptly named after the state of Penang, showcasing our ability to lead the way in developing the space tech ecosystem.
“Leveraging on its technological know-how, Angkasa-X’s offering of Satellite-as-a-Service (SaaS) to create the first constellation of Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites along the equator, is designed in Malaysia by Malaysians, and based in Penang,” he added.
Chow also lauded the collaborative efforts between ANGKASA-X, USM, the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), state and federal government agencies, academia, and industry partners in realising the project.
According to Angkasa-X mission and systems engineering director Zulkifli Abdul Aziz, to see whether the satellite has reached its destination (orbit) successfully, a waiting period of 9,500 seconds is needed.
Also present were, state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, state Entrepreneurial Development, Trade and Industry Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain, USM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed and other dignitaries as well.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian