AEROSPACE INDUSTRY IS A KNOWLEDGE-DRIVEN SECTOR, NOT JUST ABOUT AIRCRAFT – ROLAND

KUCHING, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- Sarawak recognises that the aerospace industry is not just about aircraft or infrastructure; at its core, it is a knowledge-driven sector powered by human capital, research capabilities, engineering excellence, and continuous skills upgrading.

Sarawak Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the global aerospace industry is currently at a defining crossroads, undergoing unprecedented technological transformation involving digitalisation, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced materials, and the growing convergence between aerospace, energy and data technologies.

“At the same time, the industry faces significant global challenges, including sustainability imperatives, supply chain resilience, geopolitical uncertainties, and an acute shortage of skilled talent,” he said at the closing ceremony of the Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026 held here today.

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Roland emphasised that learning in the aerospace sector must not stop at graduation, as rapid technological advancements can render skills obsolete quickly.

He stressed that continuous learning is now essential for maintaining workforce relevance and competitiveness.

“Therefore, Sarawak is promoting a culture of lifelong learning by supporting initiatives that enable the existing workforce to upskill and reskill, particularly in areas such as digital engineering and simulation, automation and advanced manufacturing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable aviation technologies,” he said.

Roland added that by investing in people throughout their careers, Sarawak aims to ensure its workforce remains adaptable, resilient and competitive in the global aerospace industry.

-- BERNAMA