Latest news with #i-CATSUniversityCollege
Borneo Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Education mapping, credit transfer to give Sarawak's diploma holders clear and affordable path to degrees
Dr Annuar (third left) presents a certificate of appreciation to a representative from i-CATS University College. SIBU (July 3): The Sarawak government's education mapping and credit transfer initiative will ensure the state's diploma holders have a clearer and more affordable path to pursue degree qualifications. The effort was formalised through the Workshop on Education Mapping and Credit Transfer for Diploma Holders, jointly organised by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak (MEITD) and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) here. The workshop gathered delegates from 32 diploma-awarding institutions and representatives of Sarawak-owned tertiary institutions — UTS, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia, and i-CATS University College. Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, who also chairs UTS, said the initiative ensures diploma holders can seamlessly progress to degree-level education, particularly under the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) beginning next year. 'The idea is to give an opportunity for diploma holders to further their studies to degree level, especially now, with FTES and free tertiary education. 'In other words, there is a very clear pathway for them,' Dr Annuar told reporters after closing the workshop. He said the education mapping and credit transfer scheme allows eligible diploma holders to proceed directly into the second year or third semester of degree programmes, bypassing the need to start from year one. 'They can transfer credits, which means they don't have to start again. 'This reduces the financial burden and encourages more students to pursue higher education,' he said. Dr Annuar said many diploma holders had previously opted not to further their studies due to financial concerns or the need to work immediately after graduation. 'Some couldn't afford the tuition, while others chose to work but still couldn't secure a stable job. 'Now that tertiary education is free, we want as many diploma students as possible to take this opportunity. 'But they must be clearly and effectively informed about these pathways,' he added. The workshop also addressed mapping suitable courses that support credit transfer in close collaboration with diploma colleges and participating universities. 'If diploma holders are already working, they'll need to leave their jobs and enrol full-time to benefit from free tertiary education. Part-time study is not covered under the scheme at this time,' he said. He called on institutions such as polytechnics, vocational colleges, and private diploma-awarding colleges such as Technology College Sarawak (TCS) and Kolej Laila Taib (KLT) to actively disseminate this information to their students. 'This is the best option for diploma holders who want to upgrade themselves. It's free and we've made the path clearer; but awareness is key,' Dr Annuar stressed. The initiative supports MEITD's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Quality Education and complements Sarawak's strategic efforts in talent development and education equity.
Borneo Post
26-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak to prioritise critical, technical courses under FTES for now, says Sagah
Sagah (third left), Mohamad Kadim (second left) and others carry out the 'Ngiling Bidai' ritual marking the end of Gawai. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 26): The Sarawak government will prioritise critical and technical courses under its Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to meet the growing demands of industries in the state, said State Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn. While acknowledging the importance of other academic fields, Sagah said the initial focus must be on areas crucial to the state's economic development. 'I cannot make the decision myself, but what I can say is that next year's FTES will only cover critical courses. 'This is because we are seriously considering the urgent needs of Sarawak's industries,' he said. He was responding to a proposal by i-CATS University College Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi, during the institution's Gawai Celebration today, who had earlier called for the scheme to be expanded to include more disciplines. Sagah said the state government hopes to see tangible results from the initial phase of the scheme, particularly in workforce development and income growth for Sarawak. 'If successful, the scheme may be expanded. Hopefully, as more students enter the workforce and help boost the state's income, we can eventually look at including more courses beyond just the critical ones,' he added. Earlier in his speech, Mohamad Kadim proposed that FTES be extended to non-technical fields such as economics, business, hospitality, and tourism, arguing that these sectors also play a vital role in Sarawak's development. He highlighted the hospitality industry's ongoing reliance on workers from outside Sarawak, stressing the need to develop more local talent for the sector. He said by strengthening education in hospitality and tourism, there would be more opportunities for Sarawakians to fill the growing vacancies The FTES, set to be implemented in 2026, will initially cover undergraduate programmes in STEM fields, law, medicine, accounting, finance, and psychology. Participating institutions include Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Curtin University Malaysia, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), and i-CATS University College. courses Free Tertiary Education Scheme FTES Roland Sagah technical
Borneo Post
10-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Ongoing Btg Rambungan bridge project to signal end of Kuching's reliance on ferry service
Aidel (front, centre) being briefed on the Rambungan Bridge works updates during the visit to the project site. KUCHING (June 10): Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Ports Development Sarawak Datuk Aidel Lariwoo looks forward to seeing Kuching Division no longer relying on ferry crossings once the Batang Rambungan Bridge has reached completion. According to the Sadong Jaya assemblyman, the project is progressing well and is currently ahead of schedule, having currently achieved 5.84 per cent in progress rate – up from 3.76 per cent recorded last month. 'This means it is ahead by 2.08 per cent. 'We hope the contractor would maintain this momentum so that the project could be completed faster than scheduled,' he told reporters when met during his working visit to the bridge construction site yesterday. The Batang Rambungan Bridge is regarded as among the most critical components along the coastal road network spanning from Sampadi to Lundu and once it reaches completion, it will replace the existing ferry service – the last remaining ferry crossing in Kuching Division. Adding on, Aidil said the previous contractor had been replaced and the project was re-tendered via an open process, leading to a slight increase in cost due to updated market rates. 'The new contract is valued at RM82 million, (with works spanning) over a 30-month duration, but I am confident that the project could be completed earlier, similar to the Batang Marudi Bridge, which was finished nine months ahead of schedule. 'Efforts are being made to push the contractor to complete key components of the bridge, particularly the two main towers, ahead of the July deadline next year. 'Once those are completed, the remaining works should become much easier,' he said. The state deputy minister also revealed that there had been a noticeable increase in manpower and machinery on site, with the arrival of new tower cranes. 'This shows the contractor's strong commitment.' Aidel also shared with the reporters that upon the bridge's completion, the ferry service would be terminated automatically. However, he added: 'While ferries retired from other locations have been redeployed (to other sites) such as to Batang Paloh and Batang Igan, no decision has been made yet regarding the ferry currently operating at Batang Rambungan.' Moreover, Aidil said in line with the bridge development, plans were underway to upgrade the connecting roads, including a future two-lane stretch from the end of the Federal Authority Centre (FAC) road to the upcoming i-CATS University College campus in Trombol. He pointed out: 'Although the upgrade from the FAC road to the bridge has not started, it will likely follow once the bridge is completed, as part of ongoing efforts to improve the standards of the coastal roads across Sarawak. 'This is one of the last remaining major infrastructure projects in Kuching under the coastal road network. 'With the support of agencies like JKR (Public Works Department), the Resident's Office, and District Office, we are committed to seeing it reach completion smoothly.' aidel lariwoo Batang Rambungan Bridge development project infrastructure
Borneo Post
29-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
HWPL's programme in Kuching highlights unity through ‘steps of peace' movement
The participants make their way to the bridge from the starting point at the Kuching Waterfront Amphitheatre. KUCHING (May 30): Over 200 participants gathered at the Waterfront Amphitheatre here recently for the 'Steps of Peace: Peace for Unity Walk', organised by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) in collaboration with the i-CATS University College (I-CATS). The event was held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace. It brought together youth leaders, students, local politicians, educators, and members of civil societies. In his speech for the opening ceremony, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang highlighted the importance of civic unity and thus, he lauded any initiative aimed at fostering a culture of peace. 'Peace is not just about preventing conflicts; peace is about promoting connection. 'It is about choosing empathy over ego. It's about building bridges instead of walls,' he called upon those participating. Moreover, Lo also emphasised that peace must begin at the individual level. 'It doesn't begin on the international stage; rather, it's right here with each of us in the way that we treat our neighbours, how we speak to one another, and how we listen with care.' Following a simple flag-off, the participants made their way along the waterfront, heading to the iconic Darul Hana Bridge, which the HWPL hailed as an apt symbol of unity among Sarawak's diverse communities. The atmosphere was both celebratory and reflective, with cultural performances and interactive peace-building activities included that encouraged meaningful participation and connection among those joining the peace walk. Lo (second right) leads the contingent for the walk along the Darul Hana Bridge. When met by The Borneo Post after the walk, Loretta Cheremai Kong, a teacher from SK Pudu, shared her reflections. 'Malaysia is a peaceful country – we don't encounter war or guns. 'So I think this world peace movement is a really good step to spread peace to other parts of the world. 'One thing that we can improve is to not focus on our differences; rather, we should look at what unites us to promote peace. 'Even though we come from different cultures and beliefs, this shows that we can move forward together toward a better future.' As the co-host of the event, ICATS brought in its students who actively took part in the accompanying activities. The deputy vice chancellor (industry and community engagement) Prof Leo Sing Lim hailed the peace walk as 'a very meaningful platform', especially in view of Kuching being known as a 'city of unity'. 'We walk for unity, and we show the community that unity is very important. 'Events like this raise awareness and remind us that peace and harmony must be continuously nurtured through education and collaboration.' The Kuching event was part of a worldwide initiative led by the HWPL to commemorate the Declaration of World Peace. For this year, the movement has reached 94 locations across 61 countries, drawing participation from over 1,600 public figures and 10,000 global citizens. Some participants carry the batik banner, spanning six feet (over 180cm) in length, which was especially made for the peace walk. Originally proclaimed in Seoul, South Korea, on May 25, 2013, by HWPL chairman Man Hee Lee, the Declaration of World Peace calls for global cooperation to end war and promote peace. Since then, annual peace walks have been taking place across continents to raise awareness and inspire action. At the previous 10th anniversary of the Declaration, Lee stated that after 'declaring peace on Earth to achieve it together', he travelled around the world for the advocacy of peace. 'I called for peace to be taught at home and in school, and for everyone to become a messenger of peace. 'We need to be united under the title of peace and work together to create a better world and leave it as a legacy for future generations. 'This is our mission in the times we live in.' The participants gather for a group photo, with the State Legislative Assembly Complex in the background. This year's global commemorations include peace education programmes, interfaith dialogues, and grassroots community initiatives – all aimed at cultivating in those involved – and hopefully, everyone – civic responsibility and mutual understanding. 'The movement continues to advocate for sustainable peace through youth and women's empowerment, international cooperation, and legal instruments such as the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW),' said HWPL in an issued statement. Declaration of World Peace Kuching lead Peace for Unity Walk
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
i-CATS, Naico ink MoU to propel Sarawak's aerospace aspirations
Shamsul Kamar (front, left) and Mohamad Kadim (front, right) exchange the MoU documents, witnessed by Liew (behind, left) and Selangor's Exco for Investment, Trade & Mobility Ng Sze Han. KUCHING (May 22): The i-CATS University College has formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (Naico Malaysia) during the prestigious Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025) in Langkawi. The MoU was signed and exchanged by i-CATS vice-chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Ts Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi and Naico Malaysia chief executive officer Prof Ts Shamsul Kamar Abu Sama. It was witnessed by Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Liew Chin Tong. According to a press release from i-CATS yesterday, the signing marked a significant milestone in the university college's effort to build collaborative frameworks with industry stakeholders. 'These partnerships are essential for transferring real-world knowledge into the classroom and ensuring students are exposed to the latest advancements in aircraft systems and satellite engineering,' read the statement. While still in the development phase, i-CATS's aerospace programmes are designed to align with Sarawak's aspirations of creating a vibrant aerospace system – one that attracts investment, generates high-income jobs, and promotes innovation-driven growth. The university college aims to become a central pillar in this ecosystem, serving as both a training ground and think tank for Sarawak's aerospace ambitions. 'As the global aerospace industry becomes increasingly competitive and technology-driven, Sarawak's proactive steps in building local capacity today will ensure it plays a leading role in the aerospace economy of tomorrow. 'i-CATS is proud to be part of this journey – transforming vision into action, and action into altitude,' it added. Currently, i-CATS is actively building capacity across several key areas of aerospace development, including systems engineering, aircraft design, avionics, satellite technology, and aerospace systems integration. The institution's initiatives aim to produce Sarawakian engineers, technicians, and innovators equipped with the knowledge and practical expertise to contribute directly to the local and national aerospace supply chain. With the support of the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), i-CATS is aligning its academic programmes and research efforts with the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 (MAIB 2030). These efforts support Sarawak's mission not only to produce skilled talent, but also to foster home-grown research and development in aerospace technologies – paving the way for long-term industry sustainability within the state. aerospace i-Cats lead MoU NAICO
