Altel Partners with GeeSpace to Transform Malaysia's Satellite Market
Deal News | Apr 25, 2025 | fitch media ventures
Malaysian telecommunications company Altel has entered a joint venture with GeeSpace of China to form Altel Digital, aimed at revolutionizing the low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite market in the Asia-Pacific region. With Altel owning a 51% stake and GeeSpace holding 49%, the partnership seeks to integrate GeeSpace's satellite infrastructure with Altel's network capabilities. This venture aims to position Malaysia as a leader in LEO satellite technology by enhancing connectivity across crucial sectors such as government and industry. The deal aligns with Malaysia's broader digital transformation ambitions, supported by national policies to boost IoT, satellite backhaul, and broadband connectivity. As demand surges for satellite-enabled digital infrastructure, the market is predicted to reach USD36bn by 2028. The collaboration includes plans for building local ground stations and commitments to improve digital sovereignty, highlighting Malaysia's growing role as a key digital hub.
Sectors
- Telecommunications
- Satellite Communications
- Digital Infrastructure
Geography
- Malaysia – The primary focus of the article is on Malaysia, where Altel and GeeSpace are collaborating to enhance the country's digital and satellite infrastructure.
- China – GeeSpace, a Chinese company, is a key participant in the joint venture focusing on satellite communications.
- Asia-Pacific – The regional focus is on enhancing connectivity and satellite technology within Asia-Pacific, as stated in the article.
Industry
- Telecommunications – The article discusses Altel, a telecommunications company, and its initiatives to expand network capabilities using satellite technologies.
- Satellite Communications – This industry is significant as the article highlights the development and innovation in the LEO satellite market and the competitive dynamics shaping it.
- Digital Infrastructure – The article describes investments in ground stations and infrastructure as part of Malaysia's efforts to enhance its position as a digital economy leader.
Financials
- USD36bn – Predicted size of the global satellite digital infrastructure market by 2028.
- USD21.2bn – Projected market size for ground stations by 2028.
- USD3.6bn – Current market size for ground stations as of 2022.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altel | Target Company | Company | A Malaysian telecommunications company engaging in a joint venture with GeeSpace to innovate in the LEO satellite market. |
| GeeSpace | Partner Company | Company | A Chinese satellite communications company partnering with Altel to provide infrastructure for the joint venture. |
| Fitch Media Ventures | Private Equity Firm | Company | The sourcing private equity firm involved in the satellite market analysis. |
| Malaysian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MSIT) | Government Agency | Government | Develops policies and frameworks to support Malaysia’s digital and satellite infrastructure growth. |