ÿ�մ���

KUCHING (Dec 5): i-CATS University College will introduce two new aircraft maintenance programmes in September 2026 as part of its expanding aerospace education portfolio.

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering dean Prof Ir Dr Shuhaimi Mansor said the Aircraft Maintenance (Avionics) and Aircraft Maintenance (Airframe) programmes are aimed at strengthening Sarawak’s emerging aerospace ecosystem.

“We are planning to open two new programmes—one in aircraft maintenance avionics and another in aircraft maintenance airframe—likely around September,” he told reporters when met at the Borneo International Forum & Competition 2025 held at the university on Friday.

Shuhaimi said the programmes will support the state’s aerospace supply chain, particularly in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities.

“The licensed aircraft engineer programme will help the aerospace ecosystem in Sarawak, especially in providing supply chain needs in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul.”

He noted that i-CATS made its first major entry into the sector with the launch of its Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering in August.

“That was our first batch of aerospace engineering students. Alongside that, we will also focus on two major education projects—satellite development and drone development.”

The inaugural cohort consists of 14 students, which he described as an encouraging start.

“Because it is the first time, we have 14 students now, which is a good number. It allows us to coach these students to achieve good results,” he added.

Shuhaimi said aerospace remains a new field in Sarawak and requires greater public awareness.

“When we talk about pioneering, the first thing is to create awareness among the public about what aerospace is. Aerospace covers aviation and space—not only rockets or satellites, but also aircraft, flight management and airlines,” he explained.

He added that the industry holds significant economic potential for the state.

“It is actually a big field and can generate high income for Sarawak,” he said.

On accreditation, Shuhaimi said the university is working closely with relevant agencies to ensure academic and professional compliance.

“For academic programmes, we need approval from the Board of Engineers ÿ�մ���. For TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) or technologist programmes, we get approval from M-Board.”

As for certification related to aircraft maintenance, he said i-CATS must obtain authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority of ÿ�մ��� (CAAM).

“We are in the process of getting that approval. Otherwise, our students will not be eligible to carry out aircraft repair,” he added.