KUCHING: Sarawak has set up a space agency under the Utility and Telecommunication Ministry, signalling its ambition to develop aerospace and satellite-related capabilities.
State Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the Sarawak Space Agency recently formed its board of directors and was now in the process of appointing a chief executive officer.
"We have received a number of applications and we should have a CEO before the end of the year.
"This is the beginning and we are moving in the correct direction," he told reporters after opening the converged telecommunications policy and regulations masterclass here on Monday (July 27).
In his speech, Julaihi said the space agency, supported by the Sarawak Aerospace Advisory Council, would provide strategic direction, coordinate institutional expertise and guide the responsible development of the emerging aerospace and satellite sector.
He said this would enable Sarawak to explore opportunities in satellite communications, earth observation, remote sensing and geospatial applications.
"Such capabilities have practical value for connectivity resilience, disaster management, environmental monitoring, agriculture, land and resource planning and the delivery of public services across our vast territory," he said.
Julaihi added that Sarawak's ambition was grounded in development needs and the long-term interests of the state and its people.
He welcomed technology companies, infrastructure providers, universities and research institutions to partner with the state in achieving its goals.
In addition, he called for closer collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) on effective spectrum management to meet Sarawak's needs.
"Such collaboration could include rural connectivity solutions, smart utility applications, satellite services and other innovative uses of spectrum across Sarawak," he said.
