KUCHING – The Sarawak Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a new i-CATS University College campus, a project set to become one of the most advanced educational facilities in the region.
During the 27th Convocation Ceremony of i-CATS University College on 8 November, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that construction of the 250-hectare campus near Kampung Trombol will begin in 2026. The development is expected to take four years, with completion targeted for 2030.
The Premier emphasised that the new campus will be “the most sophisticated university technology campus in this region,” designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
He explained that the project directly supports Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to transform the state’s economy from resource-based to high-value, driven by technology and innovation.
Planned facilities include specialised centres for engineering innovation, renewable energy systems, and digital infrastructure. These features are intended to provide students with access to world-class resources and prepare them for careers in emerging industries.
The initiative is closely aligned with the State Government’s policy to provide fully-funded tertiary education for Sarawakian students at state-owned institutions starting in 2026.
Abang Johari highlighted the synergy between the funding programme and the new campus, noting that both initiatives are designed to ensure equitable access to education while nurturing talent in a modern learning environment.
The convocation ceremony, held at the Hikmah Exchange Convention Centre, was attended by key figures including Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development and Pro-Chancellor of i-CATS University College; Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Husain, Pro-Chancellor; Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development; and Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohamad Kadim Suaidi, Vice-Chancellor.
Graduates, faculty members and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the academic achievements of the institution’s latest cohort.
The announcement of the new campus added significance to the event, symbolising the state’s long-term vision for education and innovation.
Observers note that the dual approach of infrastructure development and fully-funded education reflects Sarawak’s determination to build a skilled workforce capable of driving sustainable growth.
The new i-CATS campus is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education in Sarawak and the wider region.
