KUCHING: i-CATS University College is working closely with industry partners and relevant agencies to develop a structured Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) and Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) training certification.
The pathway is aligned with the standards of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), as part of efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s aerospace talent ecosystem.
Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at i-CATS University College, Abdul Qaiyum Alidin, said the initiative responds to the growing demand for qualified aircraft maintenance personnel as Malaysia and the wider Asia-Pacific region continue to expand aviation and aerospace activities.
He explained that i-CATS is positioning itself as a strategic contributor to the national aviation ecosystem by offering academic and training programmes aligned with CAAM Part-66 and Part-147 requirements, combining theoretical instruction, intensive hands-on training, and structured industry exposure.
“Our objective is to produce competent, industry-ready aircraft maintenance engineers and technicians who meet stringent safety and regulatory standards.
“Graduates from i-CATS will be placed on a clear and structured pathway towards CAAM-recognised AMT/AME licensing, subject to regulatory requirements and practical experience,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Abdul Qaiyum added that the programme is benchmarked against international best practices and global regulatory frameworks, ensuring graduates are competitive both locally and internationally while remaining fully compliant with Malaysian aviation regulations.
The initiative aligns with Sarawak’s push towards high-technology industries under the Malaysia’s Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030, with a strong emphasis on local talent development.
“By developing CAAM-aligned aerospace talent locally, we are creating high-value career opportunities for young Sarawakians while reducing reliance on external manpower.
“This strengthens the long-term sustainability of Sarawak’s aviation and aerospace sector,” he said.
Licensed aircraft maintenance engineers and technicians remain among the most in-demand professionals in the global aviation industry, supporting airlines, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) organisations, and advanced aerospace operations.
Abdul Qaiyum noted that the initiative is also strategically aligned with the establishment of AirBorneo, which will require a robust pool of locally trained and certified maintenance personnel to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations.
“AirBorneo is more than an airline; it is a catalyst for the growth of Sarawak’s aviation and aerospace ecosystem. i-CATS aims to serve as a key talent provider supporting this ecosystem through a sustainable, regulator-aligned training pipeline,” he said.
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at i-CATS is structuring its programmes to integrate classroom-based learning, intensive practical training, and industry exposure, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet regulatory, operational, and safety requirements across the aviation sector.
This initiative is expected to enhance Sarawak’s position as an emerging hub for aerospace education, aviation training, and maintenance services, while supporting the long-term talent needs of Air Borneo and the broader Malaysian aviation industry.
