DR SHEIKH MUSZAPHAR SHUKOR & THE ANGKASAWAN PROGRAMME

A Compilation of News, Updates & Press Releases

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Sunday, 23 December 2007

YOUTH ACHIEVEMENTS GREATER THAN IMAGINED
Topic: - Other Reports

By SYED AZWAN SYED ALI

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia draws the curtain on 2007, proud of its youths having created some records of sorts on Earth and in outer space.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha made a great leap for Malaysia by being the country's first astronaut, while some of his fellow countrymen also brought glory to the nation with their extraordinary endeavours.

The orthopaedic surgeon was lifted off into orbit onboard a Russian Soyuz TMA-11 rocket on Oct 10, a landmark for the nation, which was marking its 50th year of independence.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, 35, returned to Earth 11 days later after concluding his scientific research for the country at the International Space Station.

Hailed as the first Muslim astronaut, he observed the fasting month and hosted an Aidilfitri reception for fellow astronauts at the ISS. His feat has inspired young Malaysians to propel the country to greater heights.

On 23 April, 16 members of the Putera Umno North Pole Free Fall Expedition Team accomplished their national skydiving mission at the North Pole at 4.20am local time (10.20am in Malaysia).

Led by Putera Umno Bureau chairman and expedition head Datuk Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim, they were the only team which made the jump as the participants from other countries pulled out due to the extreme weather conditions.

Besides Abdul Azeez, other members of the team were the chief jumper Haziq Azlan, Hamsja Arsyad, Mohamed Anuar Merami, Syed Halim Amir Ali, Mohamed Zakwan Yahya, Mohamed Irwan Shaari, Norafandi Noordin, Daniel Shah Redzuan Mohamed Zawawi, Mohammad Shafiq Akmal Trisno, Mohamad Khasiain Omar Khan, Musa Abu Bakar and Saiful Nizam Dorani.

Descending in two groups from a height of between 5,000ft and 6,000ft from Russian MI8 helicopters, they also flew the Jalur Gemilang (national flag) and the flags of Umno and 14 states of the federation on their way down.

The Russian Arctic and Antartica Explorers Club has recognised the Putera Umno team as the first youth team to make a free fall at the North Pole while holding a national flag and Umno flag measuring 100ft by 50ft.

Malaysia Sports Aviation Federation (Parachuting Division) vice-president Datuk Abdul Rahim Dahalan, 60, who acted as the expedition's operations chief was the oldest member of the team while the youngest was Haziq Azlan, 19, who was also the youngest jumper from Asia at the North Pole.

Five days earlier, polar explorer Datin Paduka Sharifah Mazlina Syed Abdul Kadir set her foot at 90 degrees North after battling snow storms, difficult terrain, frostbite and problems with her ski gear.

Armed with her experience in reaching the South Pole in 2004, she set off from the Barneo base camp on the Arctic coast on April 9 and reached her destination at 2.15pm local time (8.15pm in Malaysia) on April 18.

On Aug 20, Mohd Norazmin Abdul Aziz, 23, set a world record by swimming 65km across the Straits of Melaka in 24 hours 33 minutes. He swam from Pulau Rupat in Sumatra to Teluk Kemang, Port Dickson in the open sea without the protection of a cage.

The Putera Umno swimmer beat the record set by a Japanese swimmer who made it in 25 hours in 1972.

On Aug 22, Zahra Masoumah Abdul Halim, 15, and her brother, Salman Ali Shariati, 10, almost equalled a record made by marathon swimmer Datuk Abdul Malik Maidin when they swam in special cages from Langkawi to Kuala Perlis in 14 hours.

In 2003, Abdul Malik splashed his way through a distance of 43km in 14 hours three minutes.

Zahra clocked 14 hours nine minutes while Salman made it in 14 hours 26 minutes.

The siblings plan to get into the Guinness Book of Records by being the world's youngest swimmers to cross the English Channel next year.

Source: Bernama Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Sunday, 2 December 2007

PUSHING FRONTIERS
Topic: - Other Reports

By EE-LYN TAN

"I wouldn't be surprised if during our lifetime, we get to fly to our place of work, or take our families out to space for the weekend" ~ SAM GIBBS

Keen to find out more about space science? Just ask Sam Gibbs.

IN the year 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon. Although he was only seven years old then, the moment is forever etched on Sam Gibbs' mind as it marked the start of his lifelong love affair with aerospace science.

In fact, so taken up was he by the event that he even created a 40-page scrapbook about it.

His interest in this field was further deepened when, at the age of 12, he and his brother were dropped off at the Science Museum in South Kensington during a family holiday to London.

"We ended up going there every day for seven days and it still wasn't enough," says the 45-year-old from South Australia.

Today, as the Aerospace Education Services managing director, Gibbs has made it his mission to bring science to the man in the street.

First the sea, then the sky

With his interest in space, travelling, electronics and flying, it was only natural that Gibbs first entertained thoughts of becoming a commercial pilot.

However, financial constraints accruing from a recession in the 1980s forced him to give up his dream, and he enlisted in the marines instead.

Gibbs' hands-on learning approach has made him very popular with children who attend his Space Science workshops. - Filepic

Eventually, Gibbs became a marine engineer and later earned a Master Class Five Skippers Certificate (Commercial), thus becoming a full-fledged captain.

In his 25-year career on the open seas, Gibbs estimates he has covered at least half a million kilometres, visiting 70 to 80 countries.

He credits his most exciting trip as a voyage where he was part of a crew re-enacting the adventures of the first fleet of ships travelling from England to Australia.

"That voyage took 18 months, which was the longest I was away at any one time," he says.

When Gibbs eventually ended his sailing career in France after a stint on a luxury cruise liner, he turned his attention back to his original passion for aerospace in 2000.

Gibbs explained how, while he was in France, he had met a travelling tradesman from Germany who turned out to be a carpenter.

"This guy was wearing a top hat, tailored vest and large bell-bottomed trousers with a frilly shirt the first time I saw him."

"He really caught my eye," he says, with a laugh.

The man later proved to be the creative force behind Gibbs' vision of building the world's first mobile astrodome in France.

"Together, we put up a public exhibition on aerospace that really attracted the crowds."

"That’s when I realised there was a real public interest in the field," he says.

Taking flight in Malaysia

Gibbs moved around for two years with his mobile planetarium and observatory in France before he received an invitation from his younger brother James, who was already living in Malaysia, to join him.

James, who works with computer-aided designs, felt that it would be good for Gibbs to expand his efforts in aerospace education in Malaysia.

Persuaded by his brother, Gibbs came over to Malaysia in 2002 and started working with the National Science Centre to organise a public viewing of Mars' approach to Earth that occurs every three years.

Unsure of the public's reaction to such an exhibition, he took his chances anyway and went ahead with the project.

"On the day of the viewing, I felt that a projector and big screen should be put up so that the event could be watched more easily as a couple of hundred people had turned up."

"I left for an hour to get a cable to connect the projector to the screen."

"Imagine my surprise when, upon my return an hour later, I find that more than 4,000 people had gathered," says Gibbs excitedly.

After the viewing, many approached him to ask if their sons, daughters and even husbands could learn more about aerospace.

It was then that Gibbs knew there was a strong interest in the field among members of the local community.

Today, Gibbs has ventured into the provision of aerospace education full time and now has a team of seven aerospace engineers to help him.

The timing was perfect. Thanks partly to the publicity churned up by Malaysia’s very own angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor’s recent maiden foray into space, the phones have been ringing off the hook at the headquarters at the CREATE Centre, his headquarters located at APIIT Smart School, Subang.

Although his focus is on aerospace, Gibbs says that his efforts cover other aspects of space education as well.

"I believe that in science, there is something of interest to everyone".

"Science is not gender-specific either; there are female astronauts too," he adds.

According to Gibbs, he has three goals when it comes to teaching.

"Firstly, I want them to have fun while learning.

Secondly, I want them to ask questions and learn from the environment.

And finally, I want to make learning less formal but at the same time complement what they are already learning in the classroom."

About 20% of his lesson plans are currently adapted from the United States' National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the European Space Agency while 80% are his own materials.

Exciting times ahead

Gibbs hopes that the interest in aerospace will develop a new breed of engineers for the future.

He believes that human beings will soon be moving out into space and inhabiting other planets in the solar system.

"I wouldn't be surprised if during our lifetime, we get to fly to our place of work or take our families out to space for the weekend," he muses.

However, a lot more work needs to be done as the public needs to have a better understanding of issues concerning aerospace, adds Gibbs.

"We should not be focusing on how much the angkasawan programme is costing the nation."

"Instead, we should be looking at the intellectual wealth that can be gained from such missions."

Gibbs, who recently met Dr Muszaphar when he paid a visit to CREATE, also hopes to head out into space one day, if the opportunity arises.

For now, he is busy setting up more exhibitions, and considering doing road shows to bring science to the rural public audience.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Saturday, 1 December 2007

ANGKASAWAN, SPACE THE NEW FRONTIER FOR EXHIBITION
Topic: - Other Reports

By RANJEETHA PAKIAM

World Aerospace chief executive officer Nonee Ashirin

KUALA LUMPUR: With Malaysia having finally entered the space age, the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (Lima) exhibition will also enter a new era this year.

The aerospace segment now has new organisers - World Aerospace Sdn Bhd - and Malaysia's achievement in sending a man into space will be one of the highlights of the exhibition next week. The two Malaysian Angkasawan will be making an appearance at the exhibition.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and Maj Dr Faiz Khaleed will be on site for the five-day exhibition, giving talks on their experiences and on the space programme.

And no one is more excited about this than World Aerospace chief executive officer Nonee Ashirin Mohd Radzi.

As the organiser for the aerospace segment of Lima '07, World Aerospace is out to make the exhibition a catalyst for the space sector, said Nonee.

"We expect the presence of our two cosmonauts to be a crowd-puller," she told the New Straits Times.

Nonee said the biennial exhibition that started off in 1991 must be kept relevant, and as the aerospace industry continues to grow so the exhibition will showcase the latest technologies.

On the defence side, she said home-grown unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) would make their debut at Lima '07.

And on the civil aviation side, Nonee said Lima would see the gathering of low-cost carriers, which was timely as the government was positioning Malaysia as a regional low-cost carrier hub.

This year's highlights include the aerial shows by the Royal Malaysian Air Force's newly-acquired Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets and the Royal Australian Air Force's F-111 Aardvark bombers.

And even though Lima is an aerospace and maritime exhibition the army will also have a spot - its new PT-91M main battle tanks will be on display.

Members of the public can visit the exhibition on Dec 7 and 8 and can see aerial displays by the famous Red Arrows from the United Kingdom, the Indian Air Force's Surya Kiran aerobatics team, the Sukhois, the F/A-18D Hornets and the MiG-29N Fulcrums.

Source: The New Straits Times Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Thursday, 29 November 2007

ANGKASAWAN SHIRT ON DISPLAY
Topic: - Other Reports

By GEETHA KRISHNAN

A SIMPLE batik shirt is set to be one of the main attractions at the Kuala Lumpur International Batik Convention & Exhibition 2007 held at the Kuala Lumpur International Convention Centre from tomorrow to Sunday.

Although simple, the batik shirt is by no means ordinary. It has gone out of this world into space and back.

You guess right, it is the batik shirt worn by Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor while he was in space.

According to Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia chief executive officer Datuk Leela Ali, Muszaphar wore the shirt while conducting experiments at the International Space Station (ISS).

Leela: 'The Galeri Petronas will loan batik paintings from its collection for our use'.

Leela said this at the Wisma Penyayang in Seri Kembangan on Wednesday during a press briefing on the batik convention and exhibition.

"What is also interesting is that the materials used for the shirt came from the winning entries of a batik-designing competition so the designs are different. The competition attracted more than 100 entries," she said.

Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim will launch the convention and exhibition with Yayasan chairman Nori Abdullah in attendance at Ballroom 1 of the KLCC at 9am tomorrow.

The convention will be held from 9am to 6pm over two days while the exhibition at Exhibition Halls 4 and 5 will end on Sunday. A total of 161 booths will be put up with 28 exhibitors from Indonesia and one from Nigeria. Entry to the exhibition is free.

Besides the batik shirt, Leela also drew attention to other event highlights like the Malaysia Batik, Batik Paintings by Galeri Petronas, Tokoh-tokoh Batik Malaysia and the Piala Seri Endon 2007 Showcase.

The Malaysia Batik - Crafted for the World Movement Showcase traces the journey of batik from the time the interest in batik was rekindled in a big way by Datin Seri Endon Mahmud, the late wife of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, to the present.

"The Galeri Petronas will loan batik paintings from its collection for our use. After the exhibition, the paintings will be sent over to the National Gallery to be displayed for a month," Leela said.

"About 30 tokoh tokoh batik Malaysia will converge at the Business Networking Lounge to share their insights into batik while the finals for the Piala Seri Endon will be held on Sunday. Tickets will be given free to those who register," she said.

Leela also briefed the press conference on the Yayasan's research effort involving natural dyes.

She announced that a progress report on the research would be made public during the convention cum exhibition.

She said the research team comprised three tokoh batik, with help from the consultancy services of batik masters in India and Indonesia.

Other events taking place are batik painting and printing demonstrations, fashion shows, presentations and business matching sessions.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Wednesday, 28 November 2007

NICE JANGKA DAPAT SAMBUTAN LUAR BIASA
Topic: - Other Reports

Oleh LAUPA JUNUS

KUALA LUMPUR: Pameran dan Persidangan Inovasi Kebangsaan (NICE) 2007 yang bermula semalam, dijangka mendapat sambutan luar biasa orang ramai dengan tumpuan kepada mesyuarat Majlis Inovasi Kebangsaan (NIC) kedua, pada Jumaat ini.

Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi, Datuk Seri Dr. Jamaludin Jarjis berkata, mesyuarat pertama NIC yang diadakan pada 4 Disember tahun lepas, telah memutuskan supaya pameran inovasi yang diadakan sempena mesyuarat tersebut dijadikan acara tahunan.

Mesyuarat tersebut, katanya, melibatkan 38 ahli terdiri daripada pakar tempatan dan antarabangsa serta firma perundingan yang dilantik bagi memberi input kepada kerajaan untuk menggubal model inovasi.

"Pada tahun ini, NICE 2007 yang diadakan di Pusat Dagangan Dunia Putra (PWTC) mempunyai signifikan, selaras dengan usaha untuk mewujudkan kesedaran mengenai kepentingan inovasi serta merangsang serta menggalakkan budaya inovasi di setiap peringkat masyarakat, khususnya generasi muda," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar mengumumkan penganjuran NICE 2007 di sini, baru-baru ini.

Katanya, NICE 2007 yang berakhir pada 30 Disember dan bertemakan Inovasi Untuk Menjana Kekayaan dan Kesejahteraan Sosial turut diisi dengan pelbagai program dan aktiviti melibatkan persidangan, pameran, bengkel dan sesi plenari.

Kata beliau, sempena penganjuran NICE 2007 juga, satu pameran diadakan yang menampilkan bahan-bahan inovasi sains dan teknologi semasa dengan tumpuan kepada produk, perkhidmatan, inovasi sekolah dan inovasi akar umbi.

Pameran tersebut terdiri daripada 30 pameran akan umbi, kategori produk (20), perkhidmatan (14) dan sekolah (10).

Menurut Jamaludin lagi, pameran tersebut turut disertai oleh agensi penyelidikan yang menerima geran penyelidikan daripada kementeriannya, manakala acara yang dijangka paling menarik perhatian ialah Pameran Angkasawan.

"Pameran angkasawan memberi peluang kepada pengunjung untuk bertemu angkasawan negara, Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha," ujarnya.

Turut diadakan serentak sempena NICE 2007 ialah empat acara terbesar iaitu Persidangan BioMalaysia 2007, Waste 2 Wealth atau W2W (daripada bahan sisa kepada bahan berguna), RoboFest dan Nanotech Malaysia 2007.

Persidangan BioMalaysia merupakan acara perdana tahunan yang menemukan profesional, eksekutif, usahawan, pelabur dan penggubal dasar dari seluruh dunia menubuhkan jaringan dan berkongsi pendapat.

RoboFest pula merupakan satu pertandingan robot yang melibatkan beberapa peringkat iaitu institusi pengajian tinggi, sekolah menengah dan rendah bertujuan merangsang minat peserta pertandingan dan pelawat dalam bidang inovasi.

Dalam pada itu, Nanotech Malaysia 2007 pula merangkumi simposium dan forum bertujuan meningkatkan pengetahuan dan pendedahan mengenai pembangunan penyelidikan nanoteknologi semasa.

Pada masa yang sama, penganjuran W2W pula bertujuan supaya rakyat menyedari kepentingan teknologi sedia ada untuk menjana kekayaan daripada hasil buangan.

"Sempena persidangan kali ini juga, satu majlis penyampaian Anugerah Inovasi Negara 2007 akan diadakan pada Jumaat dan pemberian Anugerah Frost & Sullivan kepada Mimos Berhad serta beberapa dokumen antara agensi kerajaan serta syarikat swasta," ujarnya.

Sumber: Utusan Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Monday, 26 November 2007

SUKHOI, ASTRONAUT AT LIMA 2007
Topic: - Other Reports

By BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 07) will showcase what the Sukhoi SU-30KMK fighter jets are really capable of.

Air Operations commander, Lt Gen Datuk Rodzali Daud said although the Sukhoi aircraft were shown for the first time during the country's 50th independence celebrations, it was just a normal flight "to inform the jets have arrived".

"At LIMA 07, the Sukhois will show how awesome they are, as well as the professionalism of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fighter pilots," he told reporters here today.

In 2003, Malaysia ordered 18 Sukhoi jets from Russia at a cost of RM3.42 billion. Six were received since June this year and are stationed at the RMAF base in Gong Kedak at the Terengganu-Kelantan border.

Visitors to LIMA 07 will also possibly get to meet Malaysia's first astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha.

"His presence will benefit the young generation. It will spur interest in aerospace and expose them to its realities," said Rodzali.

The RMAF will also introduce a "pilot stock" programme to find child talents to expose them to the aerospace industry.

LIMA 07 will be held at the Mahsuri International Convention Centre (MICC), Langkawi from Dec 4-8.

Source: Bernama.com

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

STREET DEMONSTRATIONS CAN ADVERSELY AFFECT TOURISM INDUSTRY
Topic: - Other Reports

By BERNAMA

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor with Malaysia's first astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha (left) at a press conference on Malaysia International Space Adventure (MISA) that will kick off on Dec 15, 2007 until March 16, 2008. - PIC: Mohd Johari Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism Ministry today expressed its concern that street demonstrations could adversely affect the industry if allowed to continue.

Its minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor said although he was worried about the matter (street demonstrations), so far no foreign country had issued any warning to its citizens about visiting Malaysia.

"I am asking the quarters involved to think carefully and to realise that their actions are not only against the law but can also affect the country's economy," he said at a press conference on the Malaysia International Space Adventure (MISA) programme here today.

Yesterday, supporters of the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) illegally assembled in the city when it handed a petition on the plight of the Indian community in Malaysia, to the British High Commission in Jalan Ampang here.

The crowd not only refused to heed to police order for them to disperse but also threw stones at the police, injuring four policemen.

Tengku Adnan said yesterday's demonstration affected the aerobics programme and Batik Fun Walk where only 500 people turned up although 1,500 had earlier indicated participation in the event.

"I have also received a lot of calls locally and from abroad enquiring about the situation in the country," he said.

Tengku Adnan said street demonstrations could be avoided if the parties involved used the right channels to voice their grievances.

On MISA, he said it would be held for three months from Dec 15 to enable the public, especially students, to hear for themselves the experiences of Malaysia's first astronaut, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha.

Themed "Experience Space on Earth", the programme also provides an opportunity for visitors to experience outer space and see the latest developments in the aerospace industry through an exhibition by 87 exhibitors, including on the Apollo and Gemini space programmes by NASA, and the German Space Museum.

Source: Bernama.com

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Saturday, 24 November 2007

PROGRAM ANGKASA TARIKAN UTAMA NICE
Topic: - Other Reports

Oleh IRWAN SHAFRIZAN ISMAIL

KUALA LUMPUR: Pameran angkasawan menjadi tarikan utama Pameran dan Persidangan Inovasi Kebangsaan 2007 (Nice) pada 26 hingga 30 November ini di Pusat Dagangan Dunia Putra (PWTC).

Selain melihat dari dekat angkasawan pertama negara, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor yang turut memeriahkan pameran itu, pengunjung juga boleh melihat sendiri semua peralatan yang dibawanya ke angkasa lepas untuk kajian dan eksperimen sains.

Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi, Datuk Seri Dr Jamaluddin Jarjis, berkata ia bertujuan untuk memberi peluang kepada seluruh rakyat Malaysia mendapat manfaat daripada program angkasawan negara.

"Inilah peluang untuk masyarakat bertemu angkasawan negara, namun kehadiran Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed belum dapat dipastikan berikutan kecederaan dialaminya dalam rompakan, Rabu lalu."

"Sekiranya dibenarkan doktor, kita juga akan membawa Dr Faiz ke pameran ini," katanya pada sidang media mengenai Nice 2007 di sini, semalam.

Jamaluddin berkata, selain pameran angkasawan, turut diatur sepanjang Nice 2007 ialah Mesyuarat Majlis Inovasi Negara (NIC) yang akan dipengerusikan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

"Kementerian akan mencadangkan satu bentuk model inovasi negara ketika NIC diadakan sebagai model untuk pembinaan ekonomi baru berasaskan ilmu teknologi dan inovasi," katanya.

Beliau berkata, Malaysia perlu mencontohi China yang menjadi pengeksport teknologi tinggi dengan meletakkan ekonomi berasaskan inovasi sebagai matlamat membina ekonomi.

"Jika dulu kita lebih bergantung kepada sumber eksport murah seperti kelapa sawit dan getah, sekarang kita perlu bina produk baru dan peluang pekerjaan baru berasaskan ilmu yang kita jana sendiri," katanya.

Turut diadakan sempena Nice, Persidangan BioMalaysia 2007, program kesedaran bahan buangan, Waste to Wealth (W2W), pertandingan robot, Robofest dan forum Nanotech Malaysia 2007.

Sumber: Berita Harian Online

Posted by site editor at 11:23 AM WST

SEPANG: TEAM MALAYSIA SATURDAY NOTES
Topic: - Other Reports

By A1TEAM MALAYSIA.COM.MY

KUALA LUMPUR: A1 Team Malaysia will be hoping to race hard at the team's home event in Sepang this weekend. The A1GP World Cup of Motorsport third round of competition is being hosted by Malaysia and as the local team, Alex Yoong and his crew, are determined to bring home their first points finish of the season. The team had looked strong with 10th quickest lap in the morning, but a 19th place start for the Sprint race and 15th for the Feature race were less than the team expected for themselves, their sponsors and all the fans.

The morning practice session was the final chance for A1 Team Malaysia to try different setup options prior to the grid-setting qualifying session. Yoong worked with his engineers in order to review the performance of the car after each run and develop it to gain the maximum speed for the race. By the end of this, Yoong had posted 10th quickest lap and looked set for a strong qualifying session.

Prior to the session A1 Team Malaysia welcomed a very special guest, with Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, Malaysia's first astronaut, meeting the team and catching up with Yoong. Dr Sheikh Muszaphar is Malaysia's first astronaut selected from Malaysia's Angkasawan programme which is collaboration with the Russian space agency to send Malaysians into space. By profession he is an Orthopaedic surgeon with Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. His spacecraft took off from Baikonur Cosmodrome, South of Kazakhstan and he spent approximately ten days in space. Dr Sheikh Muszaphar safely landed on earth at 6.37pm Malaysian time on 21 October 2007.

Yoong said of Dr Muszaphar's visit, 'I met Dr Muszaphar few years ago. He's a great guy and I've kept in touch with him since then, but obviously haven't seen him since he became an astronaut. He's the first one from our country and a great credit to the nation. There are very few people who have been into space, it was fascinating to hear about travelling at speeds a lot faster than we do!'

In afternoon qualifying Yoong posted a disappointing 19th quickest lap after the first two segments of qualifying, which gives him this position for the grid.

The second two segments, setting the grid for the Feature race, produced better results with 16th fastest lap after the first of the two laps and then the final lap producing 15th place finish, to line up in this slot for the main event of the weekend.

Yoong remarked, 'This morning was a bit better, but to be honest we're a bit off the pace. 10th was an improvement, but the time difference was still too far off where we needed to be. This afternoon the car was the best it had been. Why are we so far back on the grid? I just don't know - I'm happy with the car, the team, we're doing everything the right way as far as I'm concerned, so I just don't know. Right now, that answer needs someone smarter than me.'

Jack Cunningham, Chief Executive, A1 Team Malaysia, added, 'Of course we're disappointed that we haven't been able to reproduce our form. With the technical problems behind us we had expected a significantly better grid position for both races. Right now we are unsure as to why we are not on the pace - indeed we are well off it to a level that causes us concern. However we'll keep focused and try our hardest to make the improvements we need to regain our position as a leading team of the series. Everyone in our team has one goal, and that is to do the best for our nation. We value everyone's support for us and we hope that we can deliver a good performance tomorrow."

A1 Team Malaysia will return to the track tomorrow for the Sprint race at 11am and the Feature race at 3pm. An action-packed day of racing will include a colourful opening ceremony and drivers parade to be enjoyed by the thousands of local fans attending the event.

Source: A1teammalaysia.com.my

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Thursday, 22 November 2007

RUSSIA TO BUILD NEW COSMODROME
Topic: - Other Reports

By CBC (with files from the ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Malaysia's first space voyageur, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, gives the thumbs up after landing on Oct.21. He was on the most recent Russian expedition from the Baikonur cosmodrome. - Sergey Ponomarev/ ASSOCIATED PRESS

RUSSIA has decided to build a new base to launch manned and unmanned space probes, the state news agency ITAR-TASS reported Wednesday.

The new Vostochny cosmodrome in the country's far east won't be ready for manned launches until 2018, but unmanned vehicles could lift off as soon as 2015, said first deputy prime minister Sergei Ivanov.

The new station, in the Amur region bordering China, will be located close to the Svobodny site, which is used for unmanned launches and slated for closure.

Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the new station on Nov. 6, Ivanov said.

Russia currently launches its manned space flights from the 6,000-square-kilometre Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, a former Soviet republic along Russia's southern border.

The Kazakh government is concerned about the environmental impact of the station, but renewed the Russian lease to 2050 in 2004.

The most recent Russian expedition from the Baikonur cosmodrome left on Oct. 10, carrying Malaysia's first space voyageur, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, among others.

The spacecraft, which went to the International Space Station, returned to earth safely but landed far off course on Oct. 21.

The Baikonur station will continue to be used for the International Space Station program, Russian officials said.

Source: CBC News Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Saturday, 17 November 2007

SCHOOL: SEEING STARS
Topic: - Other Reports

By NURJEHAN MOHAMED

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's father talking to Taman Pendidikan Raihan pupils about the angkasawan programme.

PETALING JAYA: WHAT'S the colour of stars? What happens to vomit in space? Can I be an astronaut when I grow up?

These were some of the questions posed to Malaysia's first astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor by a group of preschool children from Tadika Taman Pendidikan Raihan Petaling Jaya.

The queries were included with pictures in a colourful booklet that the children made as part of their activities this year, in line with their theme of learning - space.

This booklet was presented to the parents of the angkasawan to be taken to their son in Russia before his launch.

Pupils spoke candidly on their views about space; original thinking and imagination being encouraged at the school.

Teuku Meurah Irfan Teuku Meurah Indra Mahlia, 6, wants to be an astronaut so he can see the stars up close and meet aliens.

Wan Khadijah Ahmad Shriffuddin, 4, says she would like to see Saturn and shooting stars, as well as aliens.

"There are aliens on the moon - I saw them in a book," she adds.

Natasha Abdul Rahman, 4, thinks it's possible to reach the sun but does not think there are aliens in space.

Ryan Fahd Huesen Zamanhuri, 6, who is more interested in seeing the planets, states that "Mercury and Venus don't have moons but the other planets do".

Ryhan Elmyra Huesen Zamanhuri, 4, who posed the question "what's the colour of stars?" in the booklet, thinks they are yellow and small.

"I would like to be an astronaut because I want to see what space is like," she says. Which sums up her friends' desire for venturing into space.

Source: The New Straits Times Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Thursday, 15 November 2007

UMNO GENERAL ASSEMBLY: COSMIC TWIST TO ASSEMBLY
Topic: - Other Reports

By NST

THE Malays believe that when you choke on your food, someone somewhere out there has just mentioned your name.

Judging by how often he was mentioned at the UMNO general assembly, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor must have choked at least 45 times in the past few days.

His name was mentioned not once or twice, but by nearly all speakers, some 40 of them, who debated the presidential address as well as the motion of economy and education yesterday.

Malaysia's first man in space has, in fact, featured prominently since Tuesday when the Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings held their respective assemblies.

Mention of Malaysia's first man in space was made in positive tones - referred to as a symbol of excellence and as an inspirational figure for the Malays.

Speakers have even coined a new verb, mengangkasakan, choosing to pepper their speeches liberally with the term.

The word has nothing to do with rockets, but judging by its application, denotes the act of uplifting or elevating the Malays - literally, until the reaches of outer space.

Who used mengangkasakan first remains a mystery, but it was made popular no less by Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who themed his speech at the joint opening of the party's Youth, Wanita and Puteri assemblies on Monday Mengangkasakan Tamadun Bangsa, which translates to striving for the Malay success story beyond the limits.

Speakers appear to have conspired to use the word in all their speeches and dazzle the delegates in the process. And dazzle they did.

For many trips, it is never just about the destination, but also the journey. In Dr Sheikh's case, however, it was all about the destination.

Source: The New Straits Times Online

Posted by site editor at 11:02 PM WST

Wednesday, 14 November 2007

SABAHAN WANTS TO BE FIRST FEMALE MALAYSIAN ASTRONAUT
Topic: - Other Reports

By DAILY EXPRESS

KUALA LUMPUR: Not many are aware that a 31-year-old Sabahan holds the world record as the first woman to become a MiG-29 fighter pilot. Now RMAF Captain Patricia Yapp Syau Yin hopes the Government will seriously consider her request to be Malaysia's first female astronaut.

"The recent success of our first angkasawan has opened the eyes of many people, including myself. I hope to continue that success," she said. Patricia beat nine other participants in the five-minute Ratu Inspirasi contest segment of TV3's popular women's programme, Nona, recently.

The segment, which began airing on Aug 12, featured 10 of the country's top female achievers. "I didn't expect to win. I thought the winner of such contests would be someone from a corporate background," said Patricia, who is a fighter pilot with the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

"All the contestants have distinctive values and are no less successful than the other," she said. "The reason might be due to the work I do, which is still perceived as a novelty among women." The fact that she is in a field monopolised by men, and one focused on serving the country, might have contributed to her win.

"I hope this will open the public's eyes, especially women, that we can do anything we want if we have faith in ourselves. Gender is not an issue anymore," said Patricia who received RM10,000, a pearl set from Rafflesia The Pearl Centre worth RM35,000 and a hamper from Mustika Ratu.

These were presented by Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah at TV3's Ratu Inspirasi prize-giving ceremony at Park Royal Hotel. During her early involvement with RMAF, Patricia, who had been chosen to board America's most sophisticated aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan last year, said it wasn't smooth sailing initially.

"Since I was young, I knew this was what I wanted to do. The fact that my brother, who was a pilot with Malaysia Airlines, was also one of the reasons for my determination.

"My parents, especially my father, didn't approve. They were sceptical of a woman wanting to be a fighter pilot. They thought it was not a suitable job for a woman," she said. "After looking at my achievements in this field, they finally turned around and I know they couldn't be happier," said Patricia, who is now based in Kuantan.

Patricia was given the opportunity to get some hands-on experience with the MiG-29 'Fulcrum' in 1998, which she described as nerve-racking.

"Words couldn't describe it. It's normal to feel nervous, and I knew it was something I had to overcome if I really wanted to be a fighter jet pilot," she reminisced. "After much practice and experience, I feel more confident now," said Patricia, whose next aim is to pilot the much-touted Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter from Russia.

"As far as I know, no woman has ever piloted the 'Flanker'. I hope I can be the first," said Patricia, the second of three siblings.

She also intends to become a qualified flying instructor. "When you are a pilot, you will be trained as an instructor and I'm looking forward to that. I'd like to share my experience with the younger generation and hope to see more women in this field in the future."

Source: Daily Express Internet Edition

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Friday, 9 November 2007

NEWLY-COINED PHRASE FAST CATCHING ON
Topic: - Other Reports

By THE STAR

KUALA LUMPUR: The coined phrase, mengangkasa bangsa (elevating the status of the race), is fast picking up among delegates and journalists at the Umno general assembly.

Many were heard discussing the meaning after Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak used it in his keynote address at the joint opening of the delegates' conference of the Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings on Monday.

The phrase mengangkasa bangsa is coined in recognition of Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed as the country's first angkasawan.

Najib had previously coined the word glokal, from the English words global and local, to emphasise the need of taking in the bigger picture of global development without losing local values and needs.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Tuesday, 6 November 2007

MINISTRY TO SET UP 'ROCKET CLUBS' IN SCHOOL
Topic: - Other Reports

By THE STAR

"We hope the two (Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz) will develop political interest. We will take it from there". - KHAIRY JAMALUDDIN

KUALA LUMPUR: Rocket Clubs will be set up in schools to instil interest in aerospace and astrophysics, Umno Youth vice-chief Khairy Jamaluddin said.

He said Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Tun Hussein was inspired to set up the clubs following the successful mission of the first Malaysian Angkasawan.

Hishammuddin had called on Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and Major Dr Faiz Khaleed to support the programmes.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz were at the Putra World Trade Centre to share their experiences with Umno delegates.

They also handed over the Jalur Gemilang, which Dr Sheikh Muszaphar brought to space, to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Asked if Umno Youth would woo Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz to join the party, Khairy said the response from the duo had been encouraging.

"We hope the two will develop political interest. We will take it from there," he added.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said the Umno assembly could be used as a platform to generate interest in science, technology and aerospace.

"I have a greater responsibility now. I am willing to play an active role to instil interest in aerospace, especially among the younger generation," said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, who also presented a slide show on his experiences in space.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

SPACE FLAVOUR AT HARI RAYA PARTY
Topic: - Other Reports

By JADE CHAN

DREAMY: Chef Ismail belting 'Fly Me to the Moon' as a 'Spaceman' floats around him.

THERE is no stopping the Space Mania, following last month's successful space venture of angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor.

Even a usually sedate and staid executive search and human capital consulting firm like JM Williams & Associates has joined in the laudation.

The company held a Hari Raya open house, and included in its out-of-this-world dinner were two "spacemen", a Malaysian Space Cuisine spread, and a chef singing Fly Me To The Moon.

The guests included the firm's clients, business partners, friends, staff members and their families and several local celebrities.

The event was aptly themed "Hari Raya in Space" and was held at Restoran Rebung, the restaurant owned by Chef Ismail Ahmad and angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor.

The Malaysian Space Cuisine spread, prepared by chef Ismail, featured dishes taken by Musza-phar during his trip to the Inter-national Space Station (ISS), including rendang tok, satay, nasi impit, ginger jelly and kuih bangkit.

According to JM Williams & Associates partner Ben Tee, the Hari Raya open house is an annual affair and each year a different theme is used.

"This year marks the second time we're having it at Restaurant Rebung. Our open houses are usually intimate, cosy affairs because we believe in business in partnership, and our guests can mingle better in this type of setting," Tee said.

"Today's event is special because we're celebrating Hari Raya with our clients and business partners, and the theme reflects how proud we are of Malaysia's angkasawan's success," he said.

"Dr Muszaphar took 10 dishes to the ISS. It certainly was an opportunity for him to share our local culture and food in space with his fellow cosmonauts," chef Ismail said.

The highlight of the evening was a phone interview with Muszaphar, who was unable to attend the event, as he had to attend to some family matters.

He fielded questions that ranged from how much water he drank a day at the ISS, the type of food he ate and what the stars looked like to his best experience in space, future plans and how his perspective has changed.

"Of the dishes I took to the ISS, my favourite was the rendang tok. I felt like I was at home when I ate it. I also liked the banana roast and dried mango, which weren't too sweet," he said. "It was like Hari Raya in space. I was very excited to share my food with my fellow cosmonauts. They liked the satay, but thought it was too spicy."

Muszaphar also described the view of Earth from space as breathtaking and magical.

"My trip has changed my perspective on life. I'm not bothered with the small details, but bigger causes like pollution on Earth, which could be seen from space. We should save planet Earth," he said.

"My future plans would be to reach out to all the people, especially those in rural areas, to encourage them to have interest in science and engineering," the 35-year-old Muszaphar said.

"My job now is to inspire the younger generation, to create more doctors, scientists, engineers and even angkasawan," he said.

"I've been dreaming since I was 10 to become an angkasawan. I will tell any child who wants to become an angkasawan that if I can realise my dream, he or she, too, can achieve it. If you believe in yourself, you can do it," he said.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Monday, 5 November 2007

REACH FOR THE STAR, NAJIB TELLS MALAYS
Topic: - Other Reports

By BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the Malays must begin the process of internationalisation and elevation of the national civilisation.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the transformation was aimed at elevating the Malays and Malaysians and mould the nation into one which constantly reached for the stars.

He said the nation which had so long been rooted in the provinces and familiar terrain must begin a process of internationalisation and elevation.

Najib, who is also Umno deputy president, said a space nation should rightly mean a nation that was elevated and highly evolved; a nation with high aspirations; a nation that was in itself an outstanding civilisation.

"In the era of globalisation, it is not even sufficient to `internationalise' the Malays. We must go a step further to elevate them and push them to reach for the stars. Everything begins with dreaming big, and today we inch closer towards making our dreams as a nation, a reality.

"We must explore and excavate the farthest reaches of science and technology, we must enhance ourselves with knowledge and skills, we must muster languages and spawn innovation, we must strengthen our faith, we must adopt culture of excellence and we must keep our aspirations high, as high as the heaven.

Najib was speaking at the joint opening of the general assembly of the Umno Wanita, Pemuda and Puteri wings at the Dewan Merdeka, Putra World Trade Centre here tonight. The theme of his speech was "Reaching for the Stars - Elevating a National Civilisation".

He said to reach for the stars was to strive for the highest achievements possible in everything that was undertaken.

"Certainly, reaching for the stars is not about the literal act of going into space, although that in itself is an achievement in science. Rather, it is about daring to dream the impossible dream and then pursuing it relentlessly," he said.

Najib said the Malays should now be able to envision the glorious civilisation which they aspired.

"Now to move forward we need to have a roadmap and know the milestones. We need good planning and effective implementation to ensure our success," he said.

He outlined five thrusts in elevating the national civilisation to greater heights, namely a glocal people with first class mentality as primary drivers; knowledge and education as core components in nation building; religion and culture as the foundation of civilisation; economic growth and equitable distribution as a source of strength; and political stability as a pre-requisite.

"To grasp our history is indeed important but even more important is how we manage the present and how we ensure the future is even more glorious. The nostalgic past should serve as a lesson and parameter," he said.

Reiterating his speech at the assembly in 2005, Najib said glocal Malays were rooted firmly at home, whilst having a global mindset and perspective and the thrust can elevate the national civilisation to greater heights by enhancing their competitiveness at the global level.

He said the most essential element of the glocal Malay was the mind which must be sharpened and trained adequately because a healthy mind was the key to success.

"If we are to progress, we must maximise the use of our mind to compete on the global stage. Indeed the battles of today and the battles of the future are the battles of the mind," he said.

He said the Israk Mikraj, the raising of the Prophet Muhammad to heaven should inspire the Malays' imagination, to goad them into going where no man had gone before.

Najib said with the glocal spirit and powerful mind, the nation had elevated a civilisation when the whole country and the Islamic world shared a sense of pride when Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha blasted-off into orbit at 9.21pm on Oct 10.

He said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar glorified Malaysia and became the first Malay Muslim ever to spend Ramadan and Aidilfitri in space.

"We will continue to study and explore possibilities in the frontiers of space and aerospace science. This effort is not merely about one man ascending the cosmos. This is about the dreams of one nation reaching for the stars," he said.

He said the success would inspire the Malays and Malaysians to reach the pinnacle of whatever glory and hopefully, the achievement would inspire and motivate the younger generation to keep striving to be the best and carve a name for themselves in whatever field they might choose in life.

On building civilisation, he said elevating a national civilisation was in line with the vision of Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who wanted the party to embrace Islam Hadhari (Civilizational Islam), a reference for others and a benchmark of success against which the world would measure itself.

Najib said that looking back on the 50-year journey of nation-building and in the 61 years since the birth of Umno, it had not been all that easy nor had it been too difficult.

Each time the nation encountered crossroads, the leaders made the right choices, he said, adding that "we have never been gluttons for power but rather we have always placed solidarity in nation-building above all else".

Najib said for the next 50 years, the new generation, the successors of the independence generation, would continue the struggle like a never-ending relay race to a yet undetermined finish line.

"If we are the ones who stand ready to receive the batons, then the question to ask ourselves is: are we ready to also receive the burden of the responsibility that comes with it? The responsibility to continue reaching for the stars?

"The responsibility rests on our shoulders. Yes, it's true. We are the people, Mamat and Dollah, Timah and Joyah, Sabran and Suparman; Fidah, Hisham and Ani; Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans and Ibans," he said.

He said the Malay mind must therefore be driven towards learning and training in positive, creative, lateral, proactive and innovative thinking.

He said he had repeatedly spoken of the need to alter the Malay mindset through transformational leadership and to work as one team in fulfilling the Malay agenda whilst holding on to their beliefs and cultivating a capable next generation, which were the ingredients to foster a generation of glocal Malays with a first-class mentality.

"We must believe that the Malays can progress. We must believe that we can succeed. We can achieve anything and everything good that we hold as our aspiration. The pre-requisite is always knowledge and education.

"Therefore, the most important investment that a Malay can make is not the procurement of land, property or fancy cars. The utmost priority and the most important investment is in our children's education and ensuring that they get the best and the highest level of education possible," he said.

Najib recited a "pantun" (poem) on harmony and elevating the national civilisation:

"Peace, Prosperity and Harmony
An elevated civilisation our destiny
Here in our beloved country
Let us contemplate resolutely
The ideals of a struggle, eternally."

Source: Bernama.com

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM WST

Sunday, 28 October 2007

ANGKASAWAN RETURNS HOME
Topic: - Other Reports

By SIM LEOI LEOI

SEPANG: Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor returned home to Malaysia after his historic flight into space, only to rush off to Seremban where his brother was buried Sunday afternoon.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's brother, Mustafa, died Saturday at the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre. He slipped into a coma last Sunday, after falling down and hitting his head.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's arrival at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport was greeted by some 200 people.

Some people had started turning up at the airport on news of his return as early as 6am, only to learn that his flight from Moscow via Bangkok was actually scheduled to arrive at 2.10pm.

This was then delayed to 5.08pm as the flight from Moscow was put off by bad weather.

As he made his way from Sepang to Seremban, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar was escorted by police outriders supplied by the airport security and the police headquarters in Seremban.

Source: The Star Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM JST

Friday, 26 October 2007

3 WIN MOSCOW TRIP
Topic: - Other Reports

By CHOONG EN HAN

Deputy Science, Technology and Innovastion Minister Datuk Kong Cho Ha picking the winners for the Angkasawan contest. He is flanked by Harian Metro executive editor Mustapa Omar (left), New ST Press group editor-in-chief Datuk Hishamuddin Aun (second from left) and Berita Harian group editor Datuk Mamja Ismail.

KUALA LUMPUR: Three lucky Malaysians have been chosen to go on an all-expenses paid trip to Moscow as part of the contingent to accompany astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha home.

They are winners of the Angkasawan contest of the New Straits Times, Berita Harian and Harian Metro. The contest ended on Oct 20.

Participants were required to answer three questions and send in the mastheads of New Straits Times, Berita Harian or Harian Metro.

The publications received 40,000 entries during the period.

The winners were picked by Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Kong Cho Ha at Balai Berita yesterday.

The grand-prize winners are:

- Chan Siew Lian, who submitted her winning entry through the NST,

- Abi Talib Yunus through Berita Harian; and,

- Ariza Hamed through Harian Metro.

The second-prize winners are Mohd Nasir Ismail and R. Priyankaa (NST); Khairi Sabirin Hood and Maisarah Ahmad (Berita Harian); and Mohd Alif Farhan Zainal and Mohd Suhaili Mohd Nor (Harian Metro).

They each receive a HP Compaq 6510b Business Notebook and a year's Streamyx subscription.

There are three third-prize winners for each newspaper.

They are Azhar Mohd Zain, Chen Soo Wah and Abd Halim Abdul (NST); Mohd Hafiz Hamad, Nor Azam Ahmad and Azaman (Berita Harian); and Mohamad Khaidir Shaharir , Mohd Hermey Abdul Halim and Siti Nor Hanani Ramli (Harian Metro).

They each win an 80G IPod Classic.

There are also 100 consolation prize winners who will get an exclusive T-shirt each.

All winners will be contacted to claim their prizes.

Source: The New Straits Times Online

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM JST

Tuesday, 23 October 2007

MUSZA MAY GO ON UMNO YOUTH ROADSHOW: KHAIRY
Topic: - Other Reports

By DAILY EXPRESS

KUALA LUMPUR: UMNO Youth is keen on arranging a roadshow to bring angkawasan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha to the masses, especially Malaysian youth, said the movement's Deputy Chief Khairy Jamaluddin.

"Dr Sheikh Muszaphar has agreed to it and with the agreement of all parties involved and the Science, Technology and Innovations Ministry, our angkawasan can share his experiences in space with Malaysian youth," he said when approached after attending a press conference by Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yasin on this year's National Agriculture Convention, Monday.

Khairy added that Umno Youth would act as the facilitator for the roadshow and also welcomed Umno Youth members to take part in future space programmes.

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin said he was very proud that Muszaphar created history for the nation with his successful space mission.

"However, it does not stop there. I was very happy to hear Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak mention that the Russian's have made an offer to bring a second Malaysian into space in the immediate future.

"This will fire the younger generation more to explore not only space sciences but anything to do with science and technology," he said.

Source: Daily Express Internet Edition

Posted by site editor at 12:01 AM JST

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