Malaysia issues license to Elon Musk’s Starlink to bring internet to remote areas, launches new Tesla EV
- Starlink, which is operated by Musk’s SpaceX, will begin by providing its services to schools and higher education institutions, minister said
- Government will also work with satellite communications firms, including Starlink, to ensure 100 per cent internet coverage in populated areas
Malaysia has issued a license to Starlink, the satellite communications service started by Elon Musk, to provide internet services in the country, particularly in remote areas, its communications minister said on Thursday.
Minister Fahmi Fadzil said in a Facebook post that Starlink, which is operated by Musk’s SpaceX, would begin by providing its services to schools and higher education institutions.
The government was also prepared to work with satellite communications firms, including Starlink, to ensure 100 per cent internet coverage in populated areas, Fahmi said.
Around three per cent of populated areas in Malaysia face issues with internet access, due to geographical and infrastructure challenges, he added.
The announcement comes a week after Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a call with Musk to discuss his companies investing in Malaysia.
Separately on Thursday, Tesla unveiled its sport utility electric vehicle – Model Y – at an event in Kuala Lumpur, with deliveries to Malaysia to begin next year.