MYSA Says Bright Light Spotted In Sabah Sky Caused By Rocket Launch In China
Photos and videos of the sighting were shared on social media.
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The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), through the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), has confirmed that the bright light spotted in Sabah's skies early on Monday morning, 9 November, was caused by a rocket launch in China
The sighting came after several locals in Kota Kinabalu reported seeing a bright light moving across the dark sky at around 4.30am, with photos and videos of the incident later circulating on social media.
In a statement today, 11 November, MYSA said the light originated from the launch of China's Long March 12 rocket, which took place at 4.24am Malaysian Time (MYT).
The rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, in southern China.
MYSA also said it had received information from the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) about the possibility of debris from the rocket launch falling within two identified drop zones in Philippine waters
These areas are located approximately 25 nautical miles (NM) from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 19 NM from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
However, MYSA said there have been no official reports of debris from the launch being found within Malaysian territory so far.
Members of the public who come across any debris suspected to be from the rocket launch are advised to contact the Space Regulatory Division immediately.
According to Philippine media GMA News, authorities said the rocket launch caused a "space jellyfish" phenomenon to also appear in Palawan skies.
The Philippine Navy explained that the phenomenon occurs when sunlight reflects off rocket exhaust gases released at high altitudes during morning or evening twilight. The resulting luminous formation resembles a jellyfish.
Penampakan Benda Bercahaya di Langit terekam kamera warga, Senin, 9 November 2026 sekitar pukul 04.30 pagi. 📍Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. https://t.co/Vvwyu8o5Tq
— NyxNara (@NaraSenyap) November 10, 2026
