i-CATS University College and Dassault Systèmes have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen digital engineering capabilities and support Sarawak’s ambition of becoming a regional aerospace and space technology hub.
The partnership will focus on developing industry-ready talent, expanding aerospace education and strengthening collaboration between academia and industry through Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
As part of the collaboration, the two organisations will establish Southeast Asia’s Digital Aerospace Showcase, which will provide a platform for industry, government, academia and the public to explore aerospace design, digital engineering, simulation and virtual twin technologies.
The initiative will also support the continued development of i-CATS’ Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, including its existing aerospace engineering programme and planned degree programmes in aircraft maintenance.
In addition, the collaboration aims to strengthen applied research and innovation, including projects involving satellite technology and unmanned aircraft systems.
Students, lecturers, researchers and industry professionals will gain access to industry-recognised digital engineering tools and training, helping to build the skilled workforce needed to support Sarawak’s growing aerospace and space sectors.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi said the partnership would enhance i-CATS’ capabilities in aerospace engineering, design and technology.
“Through access to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and virtual twin technology, our students and researchers will strengthen their competencies in aircraft design, avionics, aircraft maintenance, systems engineering, simulation, product development and advanced manufacturing,” he stated.
“This partnership will support industry-relevant learning, multidisciplinary research and innovation while contributing to the development of highly skilled talent in Sarawak.”
Senior Director of Customer Process Experience Asia-Pacific South at Dassault Systèmes Patrick Ong said the collaboration marked the beginning of broader efforts to support Sarawak’s aerospace and digital transformation.
“Through the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, i-CATS students will be able to design, simulate and test ideas digitally before they take physical form,” he elaborated.
“We see this as the foundation for long-term capability development that can support Sarawak’s aerospace ambitions.”
The partnership supports national and state initiatives, including the Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030, the National Space Policy 2030 and the APACE 2026 legacy programme through certification pathways, joint programmes and technology demonstration initiatives. ‒ July 30, 2026
