[FPSPACE] First Malaysian astronaut to defend himself against allegations of charging exorbitant speaking fees

[John Charles]

This article also refers to plans for an "Islamic Space Agency" to
accomplish the enlightened goals that Jim Oberg has previously
encouraged Islamic astronauts to undertake.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/National/2443488/Article/index_html

Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor is to defend himself tomorrow [Jan.
5] against allegations he has been charging exorbitant fees for
"motivational talks"...

...He also said the idea for an Islamic Space Agency had received the
backing of the first Muslim astronaut Prince Sultan bin Salman, the
Saudi Arabian Crown Prince, who went to space on board the space
shuttle Discovery in 1985.

"In fact, Prince Sultan said the agency should be represented by eight
more Muslims including myself. My mission now is to look for the other
people to establish this agency that could bring back the science and
astronomy glory days of Islam."

-- 
John Charles
Houston, Texas