Malaysia stands out as a leading player in rare earth processing while also holding substantial reserves of the elements. The country processes materials essential for electric vehicles, smartphones, defence tech and a wide array of other goods.
Now, officials in Sarawak are taking a new step forward to better delineate the composition of rare earth elements on the eastern side of the country. Sarawak officials just announced that they will employ CubeSat technology to map the state’s rare earth reserves.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg made the statement on Jul. 8. He explained that the miniature satellites will gather Earth observation data. This data will help leaders understand the exact volume of reserves, which will assist with planning future domestic growth in AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. A specific timeline for this endeavour was not provided.
Abang Johari noted that Sarawak has significant quantities of rare earth elements but does not yet understand the full scale. The satellites will provide precise facts for smart decisions.
This move builds directly on the state’s earlier plan to create the Sarawak Space Agency, announced in May. It aims to coordinate aerospace work and launch the first nanosatellite by 2030. CubeSats (miniature cube-shaped satellites) form a core part of that vision. They will support resource mapping, environmental monitoring and economic planning.
This announcement drew criticism though. Some residents and online voices argue that the state should fix basic needs like roads, water and electricity before spending on space projects. Critics call it a waste of funds or a risky venture that could fail like past national efforts.
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Malaysia’s broader rare earth ambitions come with controversy
While Sarawak focuses on upstream mapping, Peninsular Malaysia continues advancing midstream processing.
It hosts the world’s largest processing plant outside China, run by Australia’s Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (OTCMKTS: LYSCF) (FRA: LYI) (ASX: LYC). The country also holds an estimated 274,000 metric tons of rare earth deposits across several states.
Recent developments show fresh momentum. French firm Carester plans to build a rare earth separation plant in Perak with private local partner Malaco Mining. The project, announced this month, could meet 15 to 20 per cent of global heavy rare earth demand. It includes technology transfer and clean mining methods.
Despite economic benefits, the industry also stirs protests. Activists in Kuala Lumpur recently demonstrated against Lynas‘s deal to supply the United States Department of Defense. They worry that Malaysian rare earths could support weapons used in conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
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