S’wak to design and manufacture Its first satellite

Sarawak advances plans for its first satellite while strengthening semiconductor and aerospace ties with United Kingdom partners.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 6: Sarawak is strengthening collaboration with United Kingdom partners in semiconductors and aerospace while advancing plans to design and manufacture its first satellite.

The initiative led through SMD Semiconductor was announced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the Sarawak Semiconductor Engagement Session in Bristol on Tuesday (May 5). The session was co-hosted with the University of Bristol at the NCC, Bristol and Bath Science Park.

According to a recent statement, more than 80 policymakers, researchers and industry representatives from across the United Kingdom attended the engagement session, underscoring expanding collaboration in advanced technology fields including semiconductor design, aerospace systems and data-driven technologies.

Participants included representatives from the West of England Combined Authority, the UK Department for Business and Trade, as well as industry players such as Rolls-Royce, GKN Aerospace, Nexperia, Space West, the Centre for Modelling and Simulation and Sora Aviation.

Building on these engagements, Sarawak is exploring strategic partnerships to develop satellite-grade semiconductor chips and systems, in addition to plans to launch its first satellite. The initiative forms part of the State’s broader effort to position itself as a high-value player in the global semiconductor, aerospace and space technology industries.

The proposed satellite programme is expected to support applications such as earth observation, forestry monitoring, disaster management, carbon tracking and maritime surveillance.

It is also aimed at enhancing telecommunications infrastructure, including extending high-speed, low-latency connectivity to remote and underserved areas.

Abang Johari said semiconductors serve as a key enabler across multiple sectors, supporting data capabilities and connectivity that drive real-world applications.

The initiative reflects Sarawak’s ongoing shift towards innovation-led industries, with international partnerships playing a central role in strengthening technical capability and accelerating entry into advanced technology sectors.

Sarawak’s delegation was led by Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dato Zakri Jaafar alongside State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.— DayakDaily