BY NATASHA JEE & ALEXANDRA LORNA
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is committed to establishing the state as a satellite launch hub, with plans to adopt environmentally friendly methods such as using floating vessels or aircraft for launches.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he has tasked i-CATS University College chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain to collaborate with international experts, including those from Turkey, to develop expertise in satellite launching.
“The latest technology that I was informed about is through aircraft or floating vessels. This will not jeopardise the environment, and we can use our floating vessel or aircraft that is specially designed for satellite launches,” he said.
He said this during Sarawak Multimedia Authority’s (SMA) 2025 Lunar New Year Dinner at a hotel here, last night (Feb 7).
Abang Johari also noted that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously identified Sarawak as a potential satellite launchpad.
Earlier, SMA general manager Datuk Anderson Tiong Ing Heng revealed that SMA and the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) are currently developing the Sarawak Space Industry Roadmap.
“The roadmap outlines the strategic initiatives to establish Sarawak as a regional leader in space technology, with a special emphasis on satellite and satellite manufacturing, developing launch pad facilities and a sustainable space ecosystem.
“The roadmap aligns with Sarawak’s goal for fostering economic growth, enhancing
clean energy leadership and positioning herself as a key player in the global space sector,” he said.
Tiong added that the roadmap will target satellite communication, space exploration, and related industries, boosting Sarawak’s digital economy and positioning the state as a key player in the global space sector.
