KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its science and engineering culture with the development of Sarawak Science Centre and Borneo Astronomy Centre in Santubong.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said these institutions are set to inspire curiosity, strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) literacy, and encourage young Sarawakians to pursue careers in Science, Engineering and Technology including aerospace engineering. These are in tandem with the demand in aerospace and new space development.
“I believe the facilities would ensure aerospace and new space visible and achievable for young Sarawakians,” he said.
He made these remarks in his keynote address at the launching ceremony of Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Tuesday (Jan 27).
Noting how aerospace and new space development must be responsible, Abang Johari said Sarawak is investing in climate and environmental research, conservation and carbon management, low-carbon technology and mobility as well as renewable and green energy including hydrogen.
He said aerospace, aviation and space systems contribute directly to emissions reduction, climate monitoring and sustainable mobility, hence economic growth and environmental stewardship must advance hand in hand.
“We are not chasing prestige; we are building lasting capability. We are preparing Sarawakians not to just use these technologies but to design, build, and to derive prosperity from them.
“In doing so, we are building our capability to secure our own future and contribute meaningfully to a collaborative and competitive aerospace future for all of ASEAN. By building our capability in this high-growth industry, we position Sarawak not merely as a participant, but as a capable partner in shaping the orbital infrastructure for tomorrow,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak is positioning itself as an aerospace and new space education hub thus becoming a capability-driven aviation hub and as a contributor to ASEAN’S aerospace future.
With ASEAN having scale of young talent and shared ambition, he said by working together ASEAN can emerge as a globally competitive aerospace and new space region.
“Sarawak is preparing for the future of aerospace and new space, but preparation alone is not enough. We must build capability, inspire talent, and collaborate.
“To our partners, industry, universities, investors and ASEAN colleagues, we invite you to build with Sarawak. To invest in capability, to develop talent as well as to reshape the aerospace and new space economy of this region together,” he added.
