Sarawak’s Transport ministry to coordinate setting up Malaysia’s aerospace hub in the State

Lee (fourth left) presents a memento to one of the speakers during the 'Sarawak Aviation Safety Talk for Southern Region' event held at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre, Kuching on Aug 13, 2024.

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Aug 13: Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) has been appointed to coordinate Sarawak’s development as Malaysia’s hub for aerospace industry.

Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the setting up of an aerospace hub in the State was among matters discussed during the Sarawak Industry Coordination Joint Committee Meeting in Kuching on July 29 attended by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Federal Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

“My ministry (MOTS) has been appointed to coordinate the development of the aerospace industry, and this is where we need a lot of input.

“At the moment, my ministry has already provided input to our training centres like Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) and we are also working with i-CATS University College.

“The centres will provide training for aircraft technicians in the running of MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) or even the setting up of simulators, aircrew training and so on,” he said during the ‘Sarawak Aviation Safety Talk for Southern Region’ event held at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today.

On top of all this, he stated, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has previously revealed the State’s plan to set up its own aerospace training centre and build a new international airport in preparation for its aviation industry.

At the same time, Lee emphasised that Sarawak should consider looking into the fields of aeronautical engineering and manufacturing of aircraft parts for younger generations to grow their career in the aerospace industry.

“When we have set up the aerospace main hub, all this will be incorporated so we will be providing entirely new potential when we set up the aerospace park.

“Aerospace is an excellent career path for professionals seeking opportunities to engage in complex technical projects like designing and building aircraft. Those who are passionate about aircraft innovation, cutting-edge technology, and space exploration, will find this very rewarding,” he added.

Also present were Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) chief executive officer Dato Captain Norazman Mahmud, Deputy Minister of Transport (Aviation and Road) Datuk Dr Jerip Susil and MOTS permanent secretary Datu Wong Hee Sieng. — DayakDaily