Sematan Identified as Prime Satellite Launch Site Due to Proximity to Equator, Says Abg Johari
Sarawak’s Role in the Global Aerospace Industry
KUCHING (Sept 15): Sarawak is on its way to becoming a crucial player in the global aerospace industry with Sematan, a town located in the Lundu district, identified as an ideal satellite launch site due to its proximity to the equator. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg shared this exciting development during the Kembara Kasih KPWKM event at Kuching Waterfront.
The strategic location of Sematan makes it highly attractive for satellite launches, providing Sarawak with an opportunity to enter the space sector. This groundbreaking initiative was discussed in a recent meeting, with strong support from the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA). The Premier’s announcement is set to position Sarawak as a key hub in Southeast Asia for space exploration and satellite technology.
The Importance of Sematan’s Location for Satellite Launches
Proximity to the Equator Boosts Launch Efficiency
Sematan’s geographical location near the equator offers significant advantages for satellite launches. The Earth’s rotational speed is faster at the equator, allowing rockets to gain additional momentum, reducing fuel costs, and increasing efficiency. This key factor makes Sematan a prime site for satellite launches, similar to renowned global locations such as Kourou in French Guiana and the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Abang Johari’s vision to turn Sematan into a satellite launch site aligns with the global push towards commercial space travel and satellite communication services. With Sarawak’s equatorial advantage, this initiative could create new economic opportunities for the state.
Education and Workforce Development in Sarawak
New Aerospace Degree Programmes to Meet Industry Demand
As Sarawak gears up to embrace the aerospace industry, there is a strong focus on education and workforce development. Abang Johari highlighted the introduction of a Bachelor of Aerospace degree at both i-CATS University College and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus. These programs aim to equip the younger generation with the skills needed for the aerospace sector.
“The aerospace industry is not just about rockets and satellites. It encompasses various fields such as semiconductors, chips, avionics, and satellite components,” Abang Johari explained. By providing these educational opportunities, the state government is ensuring a homegrown workforce capable of supporting the aerospace industry’s full value chain.
Preparing Sarawakians for Lucrative Job Opportunities
The Premier emphasized the importance of training the state’s youth for the aerospace sector. With the establishment of an aerospace faculty at i-CATS University College, students will be trained in key areas such as satellite component design, flight dynamics, and aerospace systems.
By investing in education and workforce training, Sarawak is preparing its citizens for high-demand, well-paying jobs in this emerging sector. “This will lead to lucrative job opportunities and increase household incomes, which we greatly need,” said Abang Johari.
Kembara Kasih KPWKM Convoy Flagged Off
Bringing Communities Closer to Government Services
During the event, Premier Abang Johari also flagged off the Kembara Kasih KPWKM convoy, which aims to bring local communities closer to essential services provided by the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development (KPWKM). The convoy will travel across eight districts, from Kuching to Lawas, covering 1,456 kilometres along the Pan Borneo Highway.
The convoy’s mission is to ensure that communities, especially those in rural and remote areas, have access to federal and state services. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Sarawakians, regardless of their location.
Federal and State Collaboration for Community Wellbeing
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Federal Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, and Sarawak’s Minister of Women, Children, and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah. Their presence highlights the strong collaboration between federal and state governments in ensuring the success of initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of Sarawakians.
The Road Ahead for Sarawak’s Aerospace Ambitions
The identification of Sematan as a prime satellite launch site, coupled with the state’s investments in education and workforce development, marks a pivotal moment in Sarawak’s journey towards becoming a leader in the aerospace industry. By leveraging its geographical advantages and investing in human capital, Sarawak is poised to play a significant role in the global space economy.
As the state looks ahead, it is clear that the aerospace industry will bring long-term economic benefits, creating job opportunities, increasing income levels, and enhancing Sarawak’s reputation on the world stage.