3 days ago
A commitment to cooperation
Malaysia, through the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti), will accede to the Outer Space Treaties under the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (Uncopuos).
The decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on June 25, a press release from Mosti read.
Two of the five Outer Space Treaties to be ratified and acceded to are the 'Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, Including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies' (OST 1967) and the 'Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space' (REG 1975).
This is a continuation of the full enforcement of the Malaysian Space Board Act 2022 [Act 834] on Jan 1 this year, where the country now has a holistic and robust domestic space legal framework for the government to accede to these Outer Space Treaties in line with the interests of national space industry development.
The Outer Space Treaties have laid the foundation of international space law, outlining key principles such as the exploration and use of the outer space for the benefit of all nations solely for peaceful purposes, and prohibiting the use of space platforms for military purposes.
The Cabinet's approval will enable Mosti, through the Space Regulatory Division (BPAngkasa), to initiate local and international procedures together with the Foreign Affairs Ministry to finalise Malaysia's ratification and accession process.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang (pic) said the accession is a historic step that could elevate the country's position as a responsible nation in the international space arena, in line with the principles of Act 834.
This initiative also aligns with the nation's aspiration to become an active and responsible player in the global space sector, in accordance with Thrust 5 of the National Space Policy 2030 (DAN2030), which is to enhance and strengthen international cooperation and networks.
Through this ratification, Malaysia will be able to voice its views on the importance of the space sector more effectively.
This also reflects the country's commitment to support the peaceful and responsible use of the outer space, and ensuring its sustainability.
This strategic step, which aims to protect national interests and ensure Malaysia is prepared to face challenges and seize opportunities in the rapidly growing global space sector, will enhance the country's reputation as an emerging space nation and open up more potential for participating in various international space programmes.
Mosti also hopes that this will advance and boost the national space sector through international collaboration and cooperation to achieve the targets set by the National Space Policy 2030 Action Plan and realise Malaysia's vision as a high-tech nation by 2030.
