KUCHING: i-CATS University College is strengthening its position as a key driver of Sarawak’s aerospace and space development agenda, in line with the vision of the Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.

Aligned with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the Sarawak State-owned institution is translating the State’s long-term aspirations into practical outcomes through future-ready education, applied research and industry-aligned talent development, particularly in aerospace and new space technologies.

Vice-Chancellor of i-CATS University College, Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi said the initiative marked “a significant milestone for i-CATS”, underscoring the institution’s commitment to developing Sarawakian talent capable of contributing meaningfully to high-impact industries.

“Our vision is to develop Sarawakian talent capable of contributing with confidence and competence to high-impact industries, including aerospace and space technologies,” he said, adding that early exposure to real-world environments was key to aligning education with national aspirations.

As Sarawak moves towards high-value and technology-intensive sectors, i-CATS plays a central role in anchoring the State’s aerospace talent pipeline through its Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

The faculty delivers programmes aligned with industry needs, complemented by Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) offerings and digital aviation technologies.

Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Prof. Ir. Dr Shuhaimi Mansor, said i-CATS focuses on building “real capability, not just paper qualifications”.

“From MRO and satellite systems to digital aviation technologies, we are preparing talent who can design, operate, maintain and innovate within the aerospace and space ecosystem,” he said.

Beyond education, i-CATS supports Sarawak’s space agenda through applied research, industry collaboration and specialised training aligned with satellite and digital systems, contributing directly to the State’s long-term technological capability and sovereignty. -UKASnews