KUCHING, May 20 — Sarawak is planning to establish its own space agency, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the agency will be the main coordinating entity with the role of planning, forging partnerships and developing local capabilities.
“Apart from that, the Sarawak Aerospace Advisory Council (SAAC) has been established to provide strategic direction and comprehensive guidance in driving the establishment of Sarawak’s aerospace sector, in line with current global industry standards,” he said when winding up the debate on the Sarawak Premier’s Department on the motion of thanks to the Yang Dipertua Negeri at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly here today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak is also targeting the launch of Sarawak’s first nanosatellite by 2030, through CubeSat-based technology which involves the use of small satellites for real-time data and earth observation.
“Sarawak will have the capability to develop its own satellite system to obtain earth imagery, geolocation data and strategic information for planning, environmental monitoring and resource management,” he said.
Meanwhile, commenting on AirBorneo, he said the airline is being developed in phases, with phase one focusing on consolidating public service obligation operations to service rural routes within Sabah and Sarawak.
He said in phase two, AirBorneo will expand into strategic domestic and regional commercial routes based on the market demand and aircraft availability.
“For the initial jet operations, AirBorneo plans to begin targeted routes from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Jakarta and Singapore by July 2026.
“It is our vision to connect Sarawak to the major towns and cities of Borneo. Through direct air links, AirBorneo will improve accessibility for Sarawakians, investors and tourists, while creating new avenues for trade, investment and tourism,” he said.
