PUTRAJAYA January 16, 2026 – Malaysia has formally become a State Party to two foundational United Nations space treaties, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its space legal framework and enhance its role in global space activities.
The treaties 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 (Outer Space Treaty or OST 1967) and the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space (REG 1975).
Malaysia deposited its instrument of accession through Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Hj. Mohamad bin Hj. Hasan at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 26 September 2025.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Chang Lih Kang, hailed the move as a vital complement to Malaysia’s domestic space legislation.
“Act 834 is our domestic shield, while these treaties serve as our diplomatic bridge. Together, they position Malaysia as a trusted and secure destination for space-related investments,” he stated.
The accession builds on the Malaysia Space Agency Act 2022 (Act 834), gazetted on 25 January 2022 and fully enforced on 1 January 2025. The Outer Space Treaty establishes core international legal principles ensuring space activities are conducted safely, responsibly, and for the benefit of all humankind.
This step aligns with the National Space Policy 2030 (DAN2030), launched in 2017, which targets at least RM10 billion in contributions to national GDP and the creation of 5,000 jobs in the space sector by 2030. It also signals Malaysia’s commitment as an emerging space nation to peaceful and responsible space exploration, improving traffic management in orbit and long-term space sustainability.
MOSTI is currently evaluating Malaysia’s readiness to join additional UN space treaties through the Space Treaty Working Committee. This multi-agency body, comprising 19 ministries, agencies, and academia, has conducted workshops and stakeholder engagements to gather input from industry players, researchers, and government entities.
Malaysia previously signed the Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts (ARRA 1968) but has now become a full party to OST 1967 and REG 1975. The move is expected to open doors for greater international collaboration and attract opportunities in the rapidly growing global space economy.
For more information, visit the MOSTI website at https://www.mosti.gov.my/bahagian-penguasa-angkasa/.
About The Author
