Sarawak is taking a monumental step in advancing its technology-driven economy with the recent establishment of the CENTEXS Aerospace Academy in Lundu.
Launched by Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Openg, this academy is a critical element in the state’s broader strategy to develop a skilled workforce for the aerospace sector.
With the state positioning itself as a regional leader in aerospace, this initiative is set to transform Sarawak’s economy and solidify its role in the global aviation and space industries.
Rebranding for a Broader Vision
The decision to establish the CENTEXS Aerospace Academy is rooted in Sarawak’s Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which prioritises the development of high-tech industries, serving as the enabler for the state’s economic transformation.
Sarawak Premier emphasised that this rebranded academy, originally the Aviation Academy, now extends beyond traditional aviation to include aerospace and space studies.
This diversification is crucial, as it allows the academy to prepare Sarawakian students for careers in both aviation and emerging space technologies, aligning with the rapid advancements in global aerospace industries.
“This industry is constantly changing and Sarawakians need to be trained through changes in technology (in the aerospace industry). That’s why we have iCATS first as a foundation, then to CENTEXS for training.”
The academy, in partnership with i-CATS University College, will offer a pathway from a Foundation in Science to aerospace-specific training, creating a talent pipeline that supports Sarawak’s ambitions to lead in this field.
This sector will not only generate high-paying jobs but also attract international companies eager to invest in a region with a well-trained workforce.
Equipping Students for the Future
As part of Sarawak’s efforts to become a global aviation hub, the academy will offer certification programs covering key areas such as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and avionics.
It will also focus on aerospace manufacturing, including metal fabrication and CNC machining, which are crucial for the aviation and defence industries.
Overall, the Aerospace Academy offers six certification programmes which will be launched by the end of 2024:
- Certification in Aerospace Sheet Metal
- Certification in Aerospace Machining Operations
- Certification in CNC Machining
- Certification in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (Aircraft Turbine)
- Certification in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (Helicopter Turbine)
- Certification in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (Avionics)
CENTEXS chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani highlighted that there is a shortage of skilled MRO workers in Malaysia, impacting both commercial and military aircraft operations.
By filling this gap, Sarawak can enhance its aviation capabilities, contributing to both local and national economic growth while encouraging responsible use of resources and integrating environmentally friendly practices in the training modules.
“This industry needs strong dedication on the part of the students. They must have a strong knowledge of science, including aerodynamics. I’m confident that CENTEXS and its partners can train our students to master this technology.”
The academy will also partner with international organisations to ensure students have access to world-class training and opportunities.
Sarawak Premier states, “We in the government already have a direction to develop this industry and that is why we are asking CENTEXS together with other institutions of higher learning (IPTs) to establish training centres.”
Supporting Innovation and Technological Advancement
Beyond workforce development, the Aerospace Academy will serve as a catalyst for technological innovation in Sarawak.
Sarawak Premier pointed out that Sarawak’s aerospace industry would play a pivotal role in the development of data centres using satellite technology.
Satellites will be critical in capturing and storing data for economic planning in Sarawak, especially as the state aims to launch its own microsatellites in the future.
“Hopefully one day, we will have our own satellite in orbit, a Sarawak-owned satellite in orbit, and this is for economic purposes, not military.”
Sarawak’s aspiration to have its own satellite constellation—up to four to six satellites—will revolutionise how data is collected and utilised for resource management and infrastructure planning.
The decision to establish the academy in Lundu and Sematan, which will also serve as the launch site for Malaysia’s national satellite, underscores the state’s commitment to integrating space technology into its development agenda.
Furthermore, the academy’s curriculum aspires to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D design, particularly in the development of turbine components.
Sarawak has ambitious plans to produce its own turbines for both aviation and hydroelectric purposes, leveraging AI and 3D technology to create next-generation turbines locally.
“That’s why I suggest Swinburne University to look at the possibility of us producing our own turbines using our own blades.”
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
The success of the CENTEXS Aerospace Academy will be bolstered by strategic collaborations with local and international partners.
In line with the launching of the academy, the state will collaborate with higher learning institutions and their partners abroad.
“I understand that in terms of technology, particularly in defence, Turkey is very strong in this area. Their expertise is in engineering, especially for defence equipment including fighter jets.”
In addition to AIROD and Airbus, the academy has also established agreements with the Aviation Design Centre (ADC).
These partnerships will ensure that Sarawak’s aerospace training programs meet global standards, attract students from across the region, and contribute to the state’s goal of becoming an aviation and aerospace hub for Borneo.
During the academy’s launch, the signing of Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) between CENTEXS, ADC, and i-CATS, as well as a smart collaboration agreement with HRD Corp, further reinforced the commitment to developing a robust aerospace training ecosystem.
The aim is to produce highly skilled technicians and professionals who can support the growing demands of the aerospace industry.
A Vision for the Future
The launch of the CENTEXS Aerospace Academy marks a new chapter in Sarawak’s development.
As part of the state government’s larger vision, the academy will play a vital role in equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to thrive in the aerospace sector.
Sarawak Premier reiterated the government’s commitment to providing free education for Sarawakians in state-owned tertiary institutions by 2026, ensuring that no talent is left untapped.
In the long term, Sarawak’s aerospace ambitions are not limited to job creation.
The academy’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and high-tech solutions will position the state as a leader in aerospace, both regionally and globally.
With strong governmental support and strategic partnerships in place, Sarawak is well on its way to becoming a key player in the aerospace and satellite industries.
References
- “Sarawak Government Develops Aerospace Industry”
- “Premier launches aerospace academy at Centexs”
- “Centexs, Airod-ADC to set up aviation training academy”
- “Centexs Lundu aerospace academy to drive tech advancement in S’wak, says Premier”
- “Sarawak To Design & Create Its Own Turbines”
