In a strategic move to bridge the digital divide, Malaysia has granted a license to Starlink, the satellite communications service backed by tech billionaire Elon Musk. The announcement was made by Malaysia’s Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, aiming to extend internet services to the country’s most remote regions.
Minister Fahmi conveyed through a Facebook post that he has handed a “facility and network services provider license” to a Starlink representative, allowing it to provide internet services across Malaysia. This is part of the government’s effort to extend internet access to all populated areas in the country.
At present, Malaysia has achieved a 97% internet penetration rate, leaving a small but significant 3% of the population in regions where the internet is not easily accessible due to geographical constraints. The government is committed to ensuring 100% internet access in these areas, with companies like Starlink playing a pivotal role in this mission.
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The decision to license Starlink follows a dialogue between Malaysian PM, Anwar Ibrahim, and Elon Musk, discussing potential investments in the Southeast Asian country. The Prime Minister has reportedly welcomed the company’s interest and decision to invest in Malaysia, as conveyed in various media reports.
This development comes on the heels of another venture by Elon Musk’s Tesla in Malaysia. The renowned electric vehicle manufacturer recently marked its official launch in the country by unveiling its sport utility electric vehicle, Model Y, at an event in Kuala Lumpur.
Further exciting news arrived from Zafrul Aziz, the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), who mentioned that Tesla’s collaboration with Malaysia will expand beyond the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The partnership is expected to drive investment commitments in Malaysia’s automotive sector and beyond.
A promising calendar event related to Tesla’s expansion in Malaysia is the upcoming IEMS 2023. Scheduled from 4 to 6 October, Tesla is likely to participate, as reported by Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor, the CEO of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC). Tesla’s involvement would potentially bolster the country’s position in the green technology and EV sectors.
In conclusion, the Starlink licensing and Tesla’s expansion highlight the growing ties between Elon Musk’s businesses and Malaysia. Both moves show promise in enhancing Malaysia’s technological landscape and economic growth.
This news is based on a report from Marketing Interactive.
