- MEASAT, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, is Malaysia’s leading satellite operator.
- The company provides satellite-based broadcasting, broadband, and telecommunications services across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
MEASAT: Satellite fleet and services
MEASAT’s satellite fleet includes MEASAT-3, MEASAT-3a, MEASAT-3b, and MEASAT-3d, with the latter launched in June 2022. MEASAT-3d, built by Airbus Defence and Space, is a game-changer for the company, offering enhanced C-band and Ku-band coverage, as well as high-throughput Ka-band capabilities. This satellite significantly boosts broadband speeds and supports Direct-to-Home (DTH) television services, meeting the growing demand for high-speed internet and HD broadcasting.
The company’s services cater to a diverse range of industries, including media and broadcasting, telecommunications, maritime, and aviation. MEASAT’s satellites are instrumental in delivering over 1,600 television channels to more than 20 million homes in the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, its connectivity solutions empower businesses, governments, and communities, particularly in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or non-existent.
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MEASAT: Industry challenges and innovations
The satellite industry faces several challenges, including high capital expenditure, technological obsolescence, and increasing competition from low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink and OneWeb. These LEO systems promise lower latency and higher speeds, posing a threat to traditional geostationary (GEO) satellite operators like MEASAT.
However, MEASAT has responded to these challenges by investing in next-generation satellites and expanding its service offerings. The launch of MEASAT-3d is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation. The satellite’s multi-band capabilities and high-throughput design enable it to compete with emerging technologies while maintaining the reliability and wide coverage that GEO satellites are known for.
Another significant challenge is the growing issue of space debris, which threatens the sustainability of satellite operations. MEASAT has joined global efforts to address this problem by adhering to international guidelines for satellite disposal and promoting responsible space practices.
