LUNDU: The Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) in Lundu is set to become Malaysia's first theoretical training centre for aerospace studies.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg stated that the government has identified the aerospace industry for development, with Tanjung Bako chosen as the site for the practical training centre.

"However, theoretical training will be conducted at CENTEXS Lundu as it is a collaboration between CENTEXS and those managing aerospace disciplines.

"This is an interim measure as we plan to open an Aerospace Faculty at iCATS University College, which will be a new field of study related to high technology, given that we already have a 'chip design' sector producing chips.

"One of the new uses for these chips is in avionics, which is related to the aviation sector.

"Thus, we are developing an ecosystem at CENTEXS in Lundu, which has been identified as a training centre," he said during a media interview after officiating the Batang Kayan Lundu Festival & Regatta 2024 on Friday.

Earlier in his speech, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari agreed to construct a new road under the Batang Kayan Bridge to provide direct access to nearby villages.

Additionally, he approved a Village Expansion Scheme for the Sileng Dayak, Sileng Melayu, and surrounding areas.

During the event, the Sarawak Premier also had the opportunity to witness the Batang Kayan Regatta 2024 Bidar 30 Paddlers Men’s Heat A and presented prizes to the winners of the Bidar 30 Paddlers Men’s (Batang Kayan 4 Kilometre Marathon).

The festival, themed 'Diversity of Culture, When We All Unite,' features the highlight event of the Batang Kayan Regatta 2024, offering a cash prize of RM12,000 for the title of King of the River, to be crowned at the closing ceremony on Sunday.

Running from July 26 to 28, the festival includes various exciting activities such as exhibition and sales booths, decorated car and karaoke competitions, volleyball championships, e-sports, and more.

Also present were the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development and Main Committee Advisor, Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, Sarawak Premier’s Chief Political Secretary, Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, Tanjong Datu Assemblyman and Main Committee Chairman, Azizul Annuar Adenan, Opar Assemblyman and Main Committee Patron, Billy Sujang, Kuching Division Resident Dayang, Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi, and Lundu District Officer Awang Yusup Awang Mostapha.-UKASnews