Malaysian satellite operator MEASAT announced on Wednesday it has signed a strategic alliance agreement with Chinese companies Guodian Gaoke and StarWin to offer IoT services in Malaysia supported by Guodian Gaoke’s “Tianqi” LEO satellite constellation.

Under the agreement terms, MEASAT will serve as the authorised service provider for Tianqi’s satellite-based IoT services in Malaysia, leveraging its market expertise and distribution network to drive commercial rollout next year.

Guodian Gaoke will enable seamless integration of the Tianqi constellation and related systems with local businesses, while StarWin will supply and integrate certified ground terminals.

The Tianqi constellation currently comprises 38 LEO satellites in its initial phase, delivering narrowband IoT connectivity globally across sectors such as forestry, agriculture, energy and environmental protection.

MEASAT’s chief operating officer Yau Chyong Lim said LEO satellite-based IoT will help overcome geographic challenges in Malaysia, including dense tree canopies, while easy installation and maintenance coupled with low power consumption makes it ideal for remote applications.

“We can deploy flood forecasting and early warning systems in remote areas, implement smart utility management systems to monitor asset health and water quality, support renewable energy integration especially hydropower and solar, and enhance healthcare access through telemedicine,” he said in a statement. “Additionally, smart agriculture and precision farming can be extended to even the remote areas.”

The Tianqi deal is MEASAT’s second tie-up this year with a Chinese LEO satellite operator. In February, the company signed an MoU with Shanghai SpaceSail Technologies to offer multi-orbit services to MEASAT’s customers, including direct-to-device (D2D) communications, satellite-based IoT and earth observation services.

Chinese LEO satellite firm Geespace – a subsidiary of Chinese carmaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group – entered the Malaysian market in September 2024 via deal with telecoms service provider Altel Communications to establish an R&D centre in the country to develop use cases for D2D technology.