Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil anticipated Malaysia would offer satellite direct-to-device (D2D) services by 2026 or 2027.
He disclosed ongoing discussions with three foreign technology companies but noted no applications had been received yet, according to Bernama.
Fahmi highlighted the preliminary stage of D2D technology in various countries, citing the recent study by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States.
He emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to achieving complete internet coverage in populated regions by integrating advanced technologies like satellite internet and D2D.
How satellite D2D services work?
This technology enables smartphones to establish a direct link with satellites, bypassing traditional ground-based communication infrastructure.
By directly communicating with satellites in orbit, smartphones can operate independently of terrestrial networks.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, plans to launch D2D services, beginning with text messaging in 2024, followed by voice and data services in 2025.
D2D services prove particularly beneficial in remote or underserved areas where establishing comprehensive infrastructure poses significant challenges.
Starlink is planning to offer direct-to-device services, since they are already in Malaysia, we could see some offerings from the company in the near future.
