KUCHING: i-Cats University College is set to expand its aerospace offerings with the launch of two new aircraft maintenance programmes, Bachelor in Aircraft Maintenance Avionics and Bachelor in Aircraft Maintenance Airframe, by September 2026, as part of its efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s aerospace ecosystem.
Prof Ir Dr Shuhaimi Mansor, Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, said the programmes aim to develop skilled talent for the state’s Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) sector.
“These two programmes are part of our commitment to build a comprehensive pipeline of talent for the industry. The tentative launch is in September 2026,” he told reporters after attending the Borneo International Robomaster Forum & Competition 2025 at i-Cats University College on Friday.
The new initiatives follow the launch of the Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering programme in August 2025, which welcomed an inaugural intake of 14 students.
Shuhaimi said the smaller intake allows the faculty to provide focused guidance and mentorship to ensure students achieve strong academic results, while simultaneously developing key research projects in satellite and drone technology.
He explained that aerospace remains a pioneering field in Sarawak, and public awareness of the industry is still limited.
“Aerospace is not just about rockets or satellites. It also includes aviation, aircraft, flight management, and airline operations areas that can generate significant economic returns for the state,” he said.
On the regulatory front, Shuhaimi said i-Cats is working with the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) for academic approvals, Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT) for TVET and technology programmes, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) for aircraft maintenance certification.
He stressed that CAAM accreditation is crucial, as students will not be qualified to carry out aircraft maintenance without it.
