LUNDU: The Sarawak government has requested Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak) to conduct a study focusing on the production of turbine blades.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the study is crucial as it is part of the aircraft construction and is also applicable to hydroelectric generation.
“In the past, propellers were built outside of the aircraft. Today, all propellers are built-in. If they are built-in, how do we construct the turbine blades?
“Therefore, I urge Swinburne Sarawak to conduct a study on turbines and potentially, we can produce turbines that are made in Sarawak and then we can sell them as well,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the launch of the Aerospace Academy located at the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) Lundu on today (Oct 8).
Abang Johari pointed out that mastering the production of turbine blades could significantly contribute to electricity generation and advancements in aviation technology.
He also said the government aims to produce skilled and knowledgeable engineers in turbine engine manufacturing.
“This is why we are focusing on the aerospace industry, and I am confident that CENTEXS and the relevant partners will continue to train our youth in this field.
“For that matter, the whole of Malaysia, not just Sarawakians, need to master this changing technology as it keeps evolving,” he said.
Later speaking to reporters at a press conference, Abang Johari said that turbine blades could be produced using artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing technologies.
“That is why we are planning to establish a basic aerospace degree programme in Sarawak. Upon completion, graduates can have the opportunity to pursue post-degree training at CENTEXS,” he said.
