KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is committed to strengthening the development of astronomy and aerospace as a strategic approach to producing a highly knowledgeable generation with a scientific mindset and the capability to face future challenges.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said astronomy is not merely a scientific discipline but also has a significant connection to the understanding of the momentous event of Isra’ and Mikraj, serving as a medium for Muslims to deepen their appreciation of the greatness of Allah SWT’s creation through knowledge and modern technology.
“This morning (Jan 16), the Sarawak Cabinet agreed to allocate RM150 million for the establishment of an astronomy centre in Sarawak.
“This centre is not only aimed at nurturing interest in astronomy but will also serve as the foundation for the development of expertise in the aerospace field,” he said when officiating at the Thanksgiving Ceremony and Solat Hajat organised by Islamic agencies at the Sarawak Islamic Complex last night.
Abang Johari added that the initiative will be implemented through strategic collaboration between the Sarawak Mufti Department and state-owned higher education institution, i-CATS University College, which currently offers programmes in the related fields to produce experts in space science, satellite technology and communication systems.
He explained that mastery of space technology has become one of the key determinants of strength among developed nations, particularly in terms of security, global communication systems, data management and storage, as well as Earth observation capabilities through the use of satellite technology.
“Whoever controls space controls the future. Therefore, Sarawak must be prepared to produce local talent, particularly among Muslims, who are proficient in science, additional mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering,” he said.
At the same time, Abang Johari stressed the importance of mastering technical English to enable the younger generation to understand, acquire and translate modern scientific knowledge into practical applications in the real world.
In this regard, he said the Sarawak Government will continue to strengthen the development of international schools under Yayasan Sarawak that integrate the Cambridge syllabus with Islamic studies, including Quran memorisation and the understanding of human civilisation, to produce students who are balanced in both worldly and spiritual development.
He also touched on the progress of high-technology research in Sarawak, including efforts to design artificial intelligence (AI) chips through collaboration between local scientists and international experts, as an initial step towards mastering strategic technologies.
