KUCHING: The Sarawak government has established the Space and Satellite Industry Committee (SISCOM) to drive the development of satellite technology in the state.

Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the committee will be chaired by his ministry.

According to him, the committee will include relevant agencies such as the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), Measat Global Berhad (MEASAT), the Land and Survey Department (JTS), and the Sarawak State Attorney-General's Chambers.

"We (the SISCOM Committee) have started exploring what areas we need to focus on. Our committee is responsible for developing a comprehensive framework policy and establishing a governance structure.

"Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem that supports the growth and application of satellite technology across various sectors, with the aspiration of owning and managing our own satellite technology assets someday. 

“This is the vision of the Sarawak government, and we hope to realise it,” he said.

He made these remarks in a press conference here, following a Satellite Technology Briefing by MEASAT, on Friday.

Dato Sri Julaihi also emphasised that knowledge in satellite technology is crucial for making sound strategic decisions regarding planning and implementation in the industry.

He said SISCOM must acquire knowledge by conducting research on satellite details and technology if the committee aims to explore space and satellite technology with the hope of owning it in the future.

"Owning satellites has the potential to spur economic growth and development in Sarawak.

"We know that Sarawak is very vast, and many areas still lack coverage, so this is one of the steps we are taking,” he said.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Ministers for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Liwan Lagang and Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, SMA General Manager, Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng, and MEASAT Chief Operating Officer, Lau Chyong Lim.-UKASnews