Premier: Inaccurate weather predictions spur call for Sarawak-owned satellite

Abang Johari holding the newly unveiled YSISS logo during the launch of YSISS Kuching on Jan 31, 2026.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Jan 31: Sarawak needs its own satellite to improve the accuracy of weather forecasting and better understand local climate patterns, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said.

He pointed to weather inconsistencies as an example of why more advanced satellite technology is necessary, citing a case where rainfall was forecast for Bintulu but instead occurred in Sebauh.

“You cannot predict (the weather) now. We need a new way to observe the weather. We need advanced satellites that can pinpoint what happens in specific locations,” he said when speaking at the opening ceremony of Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School (YSISS) Kuching (12th Mile) here today.

The Premier said the incident illustrated the limitations of current forecasting systems and underscored the importance of having more precise, location-specific data.

“If that happens, what should we do? We must have our own satellite in space,” he added.

He explained that satellite technology has evolved significantly, with low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and smaller nanosatellites such as CubeSats offering new possibilities for real-time data collection and monitoring.

According to him, such capabilities would not only strengthen weather prediction but also support broader applications, including environmental monitoring, land-use planning, and disaster management.

Abang Johari said Sarawak’s push into satellite technology is part of the state’s transition towards a more advanced, knowledge-based economy, which requires mastery of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

He also linked the development of local expertise in aerospace and satellite technology to Sarawak’s long-term strategy to build its own technological capabilities and reduce reliance on external systems. — DayakDaily