Space plans target practical gains, new economic activity

KUCHING: Sarawak’s venture into the space economy is aimed at addressing the state’s needs while creating new areas of expertise and economic activity.

Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said space-related capabilities should deliver practical benefits on the ground rather than merely enable Sarawak to reach orbit.

He said satellite and space-related technologies are increasingly supporting economic activities on Earth, including communications, navigation, agriculture, environmental monitoring and disaster management.

“This is an important step because our interest in space is not simply about reaching orbit.

“It is about understanding how these capabilities can address needs here in Sarawak and, over time, create new areas of expertise and economic activity,” he said.

He said this in his welcoming remarks at the 9th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today (Oct 5).

Julaihi said Sarawak is already building towards this future through plans for its own Space Agency and the launch of its first nanosatellite by 2030.

He said the nanosatellite would provide greater capability to use space-based data for planning, environmental monitoring and resource management.

Beyond the space sector, he said Sarawak is progressively developing capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, advanced connectivity, smart infrastructure and renewable energy.

These emerging technologies, he said, are increasingly interconnected and should not be viewed merely as individual technologies for Sarawak to adopt.

“Artificial intelligence depends on computing infrastructure, connectivity and trusted data. Advanced manufacturing requires semiconductors, automation and skilled talent.

“Smart cities bring together energy, mobility, communications and public infrastructure,” he explained.

Julaihi said the opportunity for Sarawak lies in identifying where its existing strengths can connect with these emerging capabilities to create new economic value.

He said the state already has strengths in renewable energy, natural resources, biodiversity and expanding digital infrastructure.

“The question is how we use these strengths to develop new capabilities, attract the right investments and create opportunities that are relevant to the economy of the future,” he said.