KUCHING: Sarawak’s planned CubeSat mission is more than an ambitious space project — it is part of the state’s broader effort to inspire a new generation of scientists capable of harnessing technology, data and research to unlock Sarawak’s future potential.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak remains committed to launching its first CubeSat by 2030, with the nanosatellite expected to provide valuable Earth observation data that will strengthen scientific research and resource management.
He said once placed in low Earth orbit, the CubeSat would be able to capture data on Earth’s surface, providing researchers with valuable information to better understand Sarawak’s natural environment and resources.
“Our satellite will be able to capture the data on Earth and this data is the new oil,” he said this when officiating at the Sarawak Science Centre (SSCiEX) on Wednesday (Jul 29).
Abang Johari explained that the information gathered could help researchers identify valuable natural resources beneath the ground, including strategic minerals such as rare earth elements, while supporting scientific research into the state’s environment and biodiversity.
“Rare earth is a very strategic material for the future. There isn’t much of it, but it can be converted into high-density magnets,” he said.
The Premier said Sarawak is uniquely positioned to benefit from such research, as it occupies part of Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, which is home to some of the planet’s oldest tropical rainforests and among the richest biodiversity on Earth.
He said these natural advantages provide enormous opportunities for young scientists to study biodiversity, develop new technologies and discover sustainable ways of utilising the state’s natural resources.
“We are in Borneo, home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests. That means we are rich in biodiversity.
“What are the products that can come from our forests? These are things our young people can study and analyse, particularly as we face climate change,” he added.
