Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) has once again made a name for itself in the space arena when it successfully sent its second nanosatellite, UiTMSAT-2, to the International Space Station (ISS). This launch was carried out via the HTV-X1 mission using the H3 F7 rocket from Tanegashima Space Center, Japan, and took off at exactly 8 am (local time) on 26 October 2025.
Interestingly, UiTMSAT-2 was designed and developed entirely by a university from the ASEAN region. This achievement not only strengthens UiTM's position as a regional leader in the field of space technology, but also strengthens Malaysia's role in global cooperation and the development of technical capabilities at the international level.
UiTMSAT-2 is a CubeSat 1U satellite measuring 10×10×11.35 cm and weighing 1.1 kilograms. It is equipped with a high-resolution camera and an Internet of Things (IoT)-based communication system via satellite. Among the main objectives of this mission include earth observation and the use of space-based IoT technology for smart agriculture and disaster management.
In addition, this satellite also supports the store and forward function for data transmission from remote areas. This mission is also designed to expand regional engagement through training and capacity building of students and researchers from ASEAN countries in the field of space technology.
Quoting an official statement from UiTM, the HTV-X1 launch vehicle is expected to dock at the International Space Station (ISS) within 48 to 72 hours after launch. Subsequently, the UiTMSAT-2 release process from the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer (J-SSOD) module is scheduled to take place in Q1 2026.
It is also understood that the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has channeled funds of RM500,000, followed by an additional RM20,000 from UiTM's Strategic Research Partnership (SRP) Fund. In addition, the Philippines also contributed USD40,000, while Thailand supported this project through the donation of equipment and technical expertise.
For the record, the first satellite developed by UiTM was launched in 2018 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking the beginning of the university's active involvement in space missions.
