SARAWAK STEPS UP AEROSPACE DEVELOPMENT WITH RM42 MLN ALLOCATION FOR I-CATS CAMPUS

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (third front, right) displays the 2027 State Budget Speech document during the first day of the second meeting of the fifth session of the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex today.
12/10/2026 04:12 PM

KUCHING, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- Sarawak is stepping up efforts to develop its aerospace and space technology sectors, with RM42 million allocated under the 2027 State Budget for the preliminary development of the i-CATS University College main campus at Trombol, Kuching.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development would support the institution’s transformation into a full-fledged university and strengthen the state’s innovation ecosystem, particularly in aerospace and satellite systems.

“Under the 2027 State Budget, Sarawak will intensify industry-based learning, applied research and professional certification through i-CATS University College next year, with greater emphasis on aerospace and satellite systems.

“The state is also advancing strategic programmes in aerospace and space technology to lay the foundation for satellite systems, remote sensing, aerospace applications and emerging space-related research,” he said when tabling the budget at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today. 

Abang Johari said the state government would also undertake a Masterplan Study for Space and Aerospace Development to guide Sarawak’s long-term strategy in the sector, with RM1.5 million allocated next year for the study.

”The Sarawak Space Agency (SSA) will spearhead the development of the state’s space sector, coordinate research, establish industry collaborations and oversee initiatives, including the planned launch of Sarawak’s first nanosatellite by 2030 using CubeSat technology.

The Sarawak State Government today unveiled a RM14.84 billion budget for 2027, with the theme ‘Together Building Prosperity and Securing Our Futures’.

-- BERNAMA