Malaysia’s decision to send a man into space in 2007 had cost the country a cool US$25 million, but close to a decade after, former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad believes it was well worth it.

He said this after viewing the space suit worn by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, worn during his 2007 space mission aboard the Russian Soyuz TMA-11.

"Sending a man into space is an achievement because not many people or countries have succeeded to do so.

"We from Malaysia have done it and I am very proud," Mahathir said.