Premier: S’wak to process rare earth elements locally; eyes aerospace talent, satellite capability

Abang Johari arriving at the 2026 GPS Convention at BCCK in Kuching on April 19, 2026.

By Doreen Ling

KUCHING, Apr 19: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has made it clear that Sarawak will not export its rare earth elements (REEs) but instead will aim to process them.

Speaking at the 2026 Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention, he said that rare earth materials are used to produce high-quality magnets that are essential components in advanced technologies.

“Because Sarawak is rich in natural resources, including valuable minerals, we must ensure that these resources are properly safeguarded,” he said during the convention, which was held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.

He also spoke on Sarawak’s venture into the aerospace sector, reflected in the establishment of an aerospace faculty at i-CATS University College, as well as Sarawak producing its own satellite.

“Today, information technology is about signals transmitted through space. We must therefore have capabilities and control within the aerospace industry.

“In the past, conventional satellites were used. But today, new technology in the form of nanosatellites can be placed in low Earth orbit and are capable of collecting detailed data about conditions on Earth,” he said.

Abang Johari said that while it may take a while until Sarawak can produce its own satellite, he commented that by the time it becomes a reality, it could be more advanced in terms of imaging capabilities and capture highly detailed information about the Earth’s surface.

“That is why we are establishing the aerospace faculty, so that our students can acquire the knowledge and expertise needed for the new economy.

“The future economy will be driven by data, and data can increasingly be obtained from Earth through advanced chip technologies and satellite imaging systems,” he said. — DayakDaily