Malaysia Grants Licence to Elon Musk’s Starlink for Internet Services in Remote Areas

Starlink’s Arrival

Malaysia has granted a license to Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite communications service, to provide internet services, particularly in remote areas. The announcement was made by the country’s Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, on Facebook. Starlink, operated by Musk’s SpaceX, will initially provide its services to schools and higher education institutions.

The Malaysian government is also prepared to collaborate with satellite communications firms, including Starlink, to ensure complete internet coverage in populated areas. Approximately 3% of populated areas in Malaysia currently face challenges with internet access due to geographical and infrastructure limitations. This move aims to bridge the digital divide in these regions.

Tesla’s Expansion

In a separate development, Tesla, Musk’s electric vehicle (EV) company, has announced its expansion into Malaysia. The government had previously revealed that Tesla would be establishing an office in Malaysia and importing battery-powered EVs into the country as part of its efforts to promote sustainable mobility.

Tesla unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the Model Y, at an event in Kuala Lumpur. Deliveries for the Model Y in Malaysia are expected to commence next year. The rear-wheel drive variant of the Model Y has a starting price of RM199,000 (S$57,900). Tesla’s regional director for Hong Kong and Macau, Isabel Fan, emphasized that Malaysia aims to build 10,000 charging stations by 2025 and Tesla will actively contribute towards achieving this goal.

A New Era

By granting Starlink a license to provide internet services and welcoming Tesla’s expansion, Malaysia is taking significant steps towards improving internet access for its citizens and promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. These initiatives align with Malaysia’s broader goals of achieving digital connectivity and sustainable mobility.