KUCHING: More engineering expertise across various fields is needed to support the development of three major projects planned for Sarawak starting next year until 2030.  

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the RM100 billion injection he announced previously covers three strategic projects, namely a deep-sea port, a new international airport, and infrastructure development for electricity, water, and telecommunications. 

He explained that engineering expertise is critical for the successful implementation of these projects, which are planned over five years but expected to extend beyond that timeframe.

"A lot of engineering work is needed, such as hydraulic engineers who are really skilled in this field, especially in water systems. 

"These are major projects, involving gas terminals and pipeline systems, for which we need skilled engineers to manage gas distribution," he said.

He spoke at the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak Branch dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday. 

The Sarawak Premier also hinted that the construction of the deep-sea port would involve the creation of 'islands', but he did not elaborate further. 

Meanwhile, the initiative to develop a new international airport coincides with Sarawak's aspiration to establish its own airline, as the MASwings sale and purchase agreement is finalised next month. 

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari reiterated that engineering expertise in the field of aircraft component manufacturing is also needed since the region has a vision to manufacture these components in the future. 

"It is possible that we also need engineers in this field, to manufacture our own aircraft components, for example wings, other aircraft components, and so on. 

"When we can manufacture components like these, it can help us to build our own aircraft," he explained. 

Meanwhile, he said expertise in the aerospace field has not been forgotten as the Federal Government has identified Sarawak as a platform to launch satellites into space. 

"We will continue our efforts to ensure electricity and water supply throughout Sarawak, taking into account the importance of telecommunication networks that require satellites. 

"The Federal Government has identified Sarawak’s potential to launch satellites into space, and this requires aerospace engineers," he said. 

As an initial step, the Sarawak Government through i-Cats University has launched an aerospace engineering faculty to train Sarawakians in this field. 

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Sarawak Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Ir. Aidel Lariwoo, Sarawak Attorney-General, Dato Sri Saferi Ali, IEM President, Professor Ir. Jeffry Chiang Choong Luin, IEM Sarawak Branch Chairperson, Ir. Stephanie Sim Hui Kheng, IEM Sarawak Dinner Organising Chairperson, Ir. Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin, and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews