By DayakDaily Team
BINTULU, Aug 12: The Bintulu Astronomy Centre (Pusat Falak Bintulu) is envisioned to become a catalyst for producing a new generation of skilled experts in astronomy who can contribute to satellite research, airspace mapping, and even defence and security applications.
According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said developing human capital in this highly specialised field is crucial for advancing Sarawak’s scientific and technological capabilities.
He stressed that the centre should forge strategic partnerships with local institutions and agencies to strengthen astronomy cooperation in an organised manner.
Among those identified were Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak, i-CATS University College, Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs), and the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA).
“We also hope this centre will serve as a catalyst for producing new human capital in the field of astronomy, who will one day be able to contribute to satellite research, airspace mapping, and even in defence and security applications,” he said.
His speech was read by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi during the launch of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre here today.
The launch ceremony was graced by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar together with his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, and attended by Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) president Datuk Misnu Taha, Bintulu Division Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, Sarawak Mufti Datu Kipli Yassin, and Sarawak Grand Imam Dato Mustapha Kamal Ahmad Fauzi.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari said the strategic location of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre, far from urban light pollution, allows for more accurate and effective astronomical observations
“Astronomy cannot be conducted effectively without a clean environment and freedom from light pollution.
“This reinforces that the development of astronomy is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action, as well as Sarawak’s green technology agenda by 2050,” he added.
Completed in 2022 and officially handed over on March 22, 2023, the Bintulu Astronomy Centre functions as an Observation and Calendar Centre, a Centre for Astronomy Education and Development, and an Astro-Tourism Centre, and is poised to become a leading research hub in the field of astronomy in Sarawak. — DayakDaily
