KUCHING: The Sarawak government is exploring partnerships with international aerospace firms and research institutions to facilitate knowledge and technology exchange while driving innovation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the aerospace industry holds immense growth potential, where with increasing demand for satellites, drones, and aerospace components, the state can capitalise on its strategic location and growing infrastructure to establish itself as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation.
“Thus, the potential partnerships will create high-value jobs in design, engineering, and production, helping to attract and retain top talent,” he said.
He said this during the Amanat Perdana Premier Sarawak 2025 programme at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and New Economy Minister said that while oil and gas remain significant, the state will focus on high-value industries such as biotechnology, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing.
“These industries align with global trends, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance our competitiveness,” he said.
In line with this strategic development, he said he has launched the Aerospace Academy at the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) in Lundu, designed to equip the workforce with specialised skills in areas such as aerospace engineering, drone technology, satellite manufacturing, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
“Collaboration is key. We are also working with universities, industry leaders, and experts to create tailored training programmes for high-value sectors like advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and renewable energy.
“These partnerships will ensure that our workforce remains agile and well-prepared for the emerging demands of these critical industries,” he said.
He added complementing these efforts is the development of a comprehensive Industry 4.0 ecosystem that integrates advanced technology across industries and establishing new industrial zones for high-tech projects such as semiconductors, lithium batteries, data centres, and green energy under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
“At the core of this transformation is the commitment to building an integrated supply chain ecosystem and promoting digitalisation to enhance competitiveness.
“Regulatory frameworks are being streamlined to improve the ease of doing business, and significant investments are being made in workforce training and upskilling,” he said.
Abang Johari said plans are also underway to establish Free Industrial Zones integrated with port development and establishing hubs for aerospace and space industries.
