KUCHING, Nov 8 — The new i-CATS University College campus to be built in Trombol, Matang will become the most advanced technology university campus in the region once it is completed within four years, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Abang Johari, who is also the Chancellor of i-CATS, said the Sarawak government has identified a 250-acre site for the project, with construction scheduled to begin next year.
“The Sarawak government has identified a 250-acre site for the new i-CATS campus. Its development will begin next year, and we hope that within four years, this campus will become the most advanced technology university campus in the region.
“Starting next year, 2026, we will also be providing free education to all Sarawakian students pursuing tertiary studies at all Sarawak-owned universities. So, we will have free education — now it’s up to you to study hard and ensure that Sarawak continues to progress and prosper in the future,” he said when officiating the 27th i-CATS University College Convocation Ceremony at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today.
Abang Johari said the expansion of i-CATS aligns with Sarawak’s goal of equipping its youth with skills relevant to emerging sectors under the state’s economic transformation agenda.
He outlined four key frontiers driving the state’s transition towards a high-value economy — renewable energy, low-carbon gas, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), and semiconductor technology.
“Sarawak aims to be at the forefront of renewable green energy as part of global efforts to address climate change,” he said, noting that a Sarawak delegation is currently attending COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
Abang Johari said the state will also venture into green methanol production, CCUS technologies, and semiconductor design to strengthen its position in advanced industries.
“We have already developed two chip designs in our laboratory in the United Kingdom — created by Sarawakian scientists,” he revealed.
He said the new i-CATS campus reflects the state’s commitment to producing skilled and knowledgeable citizens capable of leading Sarawak’s technological future.
“Sarawak’s strength lies not only in its resources but in its people who can stand on their own knowledge. i-CATS represents this direction — Sarawak is not just a consumer of knowledge, but a producer of expertise,” he said.
Abang Johari also highlighted i-CATS’ growing global presence, noting its academic collaborations with institutions in Türkiye, China, Australia, and Indonesia.
“Human capital is now the main engine of Sarawak’s development. Institutions like i-CATS contribute not just to education, but to the state’s future resilience,” he added.
He congratulated the graduates and reminded them that their achievement marks the beginning of a new journey.
“Convocation is not the end, but the beginning. With knowledge comes trust, with opportunity comes responsibility, and with success comes the obligation to give back,” he said.
Also present were Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development and i-CATS Pro-Chancellor Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, and i-CATS vice chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Mohamad Kadim Suaidi. — The Borneo Post
