KUCHING: Sarawak is advancing strategic efforts in aerospace and space technology, laying the foundation for satellite systems, remote sensing, aerospace applications and emerging space-related research.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the initiatives include an allocation of RM1.5 million under the Sarawak Budget 2027 for a Masterplan Study for Space and Aerospace Development.

“The government will embark on a Masterplan Study for Space and Aerospace Development, which will guide the state’s long-term strategy in this frontier sector,” he said when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 for its second reading at the Second Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Monday.

According to Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari, the Sarawak Space Agency (SSA) has been entrusted to spearhead the development of the state's space sector, including coordinating research and establishing industry collaboration.

The SSA will also oversee initiatives such as the planned launch of Sarawak’s first nanosatellite by 2030 using CubeSat technology.

Meanwhile, he said the state government has also allocated RM42 million for the preliminary development of the i-CATS main campus at Trombol.

“Through i-CATS University College, industry-based learning, applied research and professional certification will be intensified next year, with greater emphasis on aerospace and satellite systems.

“The i-CATS Main Campus at Trombol, Kuching will serve as a catalyst for its transformation into a full-fledged university, strengthening Sarawak’s innovation ecosystem,” he said.

He added that the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) has launched its Aerospace Academy and established aviation and engineering programmes in collaboration with AIROD-ADC.

CENTEXS has also signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Angkasa-X, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) and Tsinghua University to develop SpaceTech talent, satellite engineering as well as aerospace research and development (R&D).

“Together, i-CATS, CENTEXS and SSA will nurture industry-ready talent, strengthen our aerospace ecosystem and position Sarawak as a rising hub in high-growth, high-value industries of the future,” he added. -UKASnews