In a significant move towards bridging the digital divide, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim engaged with SpaceX’s founder Elon Musk. The talks encompassed the potential implementation of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite services to revolutionize Malaysia’s internet connectivity, particularly in rural regions.
Anwar acknowledged Musk’s expressed willingness to contribute to Malaysia’s digital agenda during their recent video call. The PM underscored the transformative role of Starlink’s technology that promises high-speed, low-latency broadband Internet. According to Starlink, its global internet network, powered by an unparalleled array of satellites in low earth orbit, can drive high-data-rate activities including streaming, video calls, and online gaming.
The PM hailed this partnership as a pivotal opportunity to empower Malaysian citizens, specifically through advancements in educational resources and agritech possibilities. The synergy of Starlink’s technology and Malaysia’s infrastructure is expected to bolster the nation’s capacity and welfare.
Further, Anwar applauded Tesla’s commitment to Malaysia, with the inauguration of its headquarters, experience center, and service center for electric vehicles (EVs) in Selangor. “In our pursuit of a net-zero carbon future by 2050, Malaysia remains steadfast. Our well-conceived ecosystem, bolstered by abundant resources, stands ready to champion the clean energy sector, notably electric mobility,” stated Anwar.
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Anwar and Musk’s conversation was also attended by SpaceX’s Senior Director of Starlink Business Operations, Lauren Dreyer, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, and Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
In March, Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) announced Tesla’s decision to expand its operations in Malaysia. This decision, expected to generate lucrative jobs, was based on Malaysia’s robust Electrical & Electronics (E&E) industry, vital to Tesla’s supply chain. As a key player in the E&E and semiconductor sectors, Malaysia will play a significant role in the manufacturing of EVs.
Tesla’s Malaysian footprint also involves installing at least 50 superchargers within three years, with 30% accessible to other EV brands. The company has begun recruiting for various positions and will officially launch on July 20. Tesla Model Y, priced from RM199,000, will soon grace Malaysian roads, marking a milestone in Malaysia’s electric mobility journey.
(Source: Malay Mail)
