KUCHING (Jan 27): The Sarawak Space Industry Roadmap is expected to be finalised by the end of this February, said Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.
Speaking in his keynote address at the ministry’s event held here yesterday, he highlighted the government’s commitment to leveraging aerospace opportunities towards spurring economic growth and technological advancements in Sarawak.
“As announced by the Premier of Sarawak (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg), we are exploring the aerospace industry as part of our efforts to diversify Sarawak’s economy.
“To support this, a Space and Satellite Industry Committee (SISCOM), chaired by myself, has been established to drive the development of the space industry in the state.
“Hence the roadmap is a key initiative aimed at diversifying the state’s economy and venturing into the aerospace sector,” he added.
In this respect, Julaihi said the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) had been actively working on finalising the roadmap, which would outline clear strategies and objectives for the state’s entry into the space and satellite industries.
When asked by reporters after delivering the keynote address, the minister said in order to realise this initiative, Sarawak must have a proper roadmap.
“The roadmap is important for the initiative and the secretariat, led by SMA under the guidance of the general manager, Dato Dr Anderson Tiong , is still working on it.
“Hopefully, by the end of February, it will be ready.”
The roadmap, according to Julaihi, focuses on opportunities in satellite communication, space exploration, and related industries – all aimed at boosting Sarawak’s digital economy and establishing the state as a player in the global space industry.
“Through this initiative, we aim to fully capitalise on opportunities in satellite communication, space exploration, and other related industries.
“This will not only contribute to the growth of Sarawak’s digital economy, but will also advance space technology development in the state.”
Asked about the specific plans and objectives of the roadmap, Julaihi gave assurance that all these would be shared with the public once everything had been finalised.
“At this stage, we are focusing on creating a detailed and comprehensive roadmap.
“Once it’s ready, we will present it to the Premier for further advice and approval, before sharing it with the public.”
Julaihi also said that the initiative meant to align with Sarawak’s broader vision of positioning itself as a leader in digital and technological innovation within Malaysia.
Thus, the minister called for patience, emphasising the importance of a well-thought-out approach.
“We want to ensure everything is in order before moving forward. This roadmap will serve as the foundation for our ambitions in the aerospace sector.
“Whatever it is, the Sarawak Space Industry Roadmap represents a significant step forward in the state’s aspiration of becoming a hub for technological advancement and economic diversification.
“The state government’s commitment to exploring new frontiers in aerospace highlights its drive towards embracing innovation and future-oriented industries.
“This is a visionary step for Sarawak. With the right planning and execution, we believe it will open up vast opportunities for the state and its people,” Julaihi elaborated.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, and the ministry’s permanent secretary Jafri Lias.