KUCHING: Sarawak is advancing its role in the global semiconductor supply chain by nurturing local expertise and developing high-tech industries to drive a knowledge-based economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state is at a critical phase in its development journey to achieve the PCDS 2030 vision, with significant investments underway to upgrade road infrastructure, water and electricity supply, and internet connectivity across the state.
These efforts, he noted, are essential to support a high-income, knowledge-based economy.
“In the semiconductor sector, we have taken proactive steps to build local expertise. Three outstanding Sarawakian students will be sent to pursue PhDs in semiconductors at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom.
“This initiative is not merely symbolic but represents a long-term investment to produce local experts capable of supporting the development of the semiconductor industry in Sarawak.
“We aim to build a robust high-tech industry ecosystem — from research and development (R&D), chip design, to manufacturing and industrial applications,” he said in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 message.
Beyond semiconductors, Abang Johari said Sarawak is exploring aerospace initiatives, including small satellite technology such as CubeSats.
“This initiative opens opportunities for our youth to engage in space engineering, satellite data analysis, and applications of space technology for agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and urban planning.
“We want Sarawakian youth to dream big — not only to gaze at the stars but to explore them and harness the technology for the well-being of the people,” he said.
The Premier also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to human capital development through the Free Tertiary Education Sarawak (FTES) initiative, which allows children from low- and middle-income families to pursue higher education at state government institutions without financial burden.
“Education is the key to social mobility. We do not want any Sarawakian child to be left behind due to financial constraints.
“We aim to nurture engineers, scientists, technology experts, doctors, teachers, and professionals in various fields who will drive Sarawak’s progress now and in the future,” he said.
