Kuching, Malaysia, Sept. 3, 2025 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and i-CATS University College today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance aerospace education and talent development in Sarawak.

The partnership supports Sarawak’s ambition to become a regional hub for aerospace and high-technology industries and builds upon i-CATS’ recent launch of its Aerospace Engineering program.  

Under the MOU, Boeing and i-CATS will explore opportunities to:

• Engage Boeing experts in industry workshops, speaker sessions, and competitions organized by the i-CATS Aerospace Students’ Club.
• Support the development and delivery of coursework and executive education certificates on sustainable aviation, supply chain, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
• Identify partnerships with other industrial companies and international education institutions to support research opportunities for master’s and undergraduate aerospace and engineering students.

“By engaging directly with the next generation of aerospace professionals, we can provide support to ensure the students and faculty are well-prepared to meet industry challenges,” said Erika Pearson, Boeing Vice President, Commercial Sales and Marketing, Southeast Asia and Oceania. “With 243,000 new trained professionals needed in Southeast Asia over the next two decades, this partnership strengthens our commitment to Sarawak’s aerospace ambitions and underscores Boeing’s dedication to innovation and education in the region.”

“Boeing is committed to supporting Sarawak’s vision of building a strong and sustainable aerospace ecosystem,” said Penny Burtt, president, Boeing Southeast Asia. “Equipping i-CATS students with STEM resources and development opportunities is exactly what is needed to help inspire and grow Malaysia’s aviation workforce of the future.”

Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohamad Kadim Suaidi, Vice Chancellor of i-CATS University College, said, “This collaboration with Boeing reflects our commitment to nurturing a new generation of aerospace professionals who are not only industry-ready but also equipped with the innovation and skills required to drive Sarawak’s high-technology aspirations. Together, we are laying the foundation for Sarawak to emerge as a competitive hub for aerospace education and research in the region.”

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing’s relationship with Malaysia dates to 1947 when Malayan Airways Limited acquired its first Douglas DC-3. Boeing and Malaysia have worked in partnership for 78 years to support the development of aerospace and defense capabilities in the country. The Boeing Composites Malaysia facility in Kedah provides composite products and subassemblies for all Boeing commercial airplane models and is Boeing’s first wholly owned manufacturing facility in Southeast Asia.

Today, Boeing presence in Malaysia covers commercial aviation, defense and services, manufacturing, supply chain development, safety training, sustainability workshops and studies, university collaborations and community support initiatives.

About i-CATS University College (Sarawak State Owned University)

Founded in 2002 as Kolej Teknologi PPKS, the institution began with a mission to provide technical education in support of Sarawak’s workforce development. In 2006, it was rebranded as i-CATS, reflecting an expanded focus on broader academic programmes and institutional advancement. By 2020, i-CATS was elevated to University College status, marking its growth in academic quality, diversity, and maturity.

In 2023, a significant milestone was reached when ownership of i-CATS University College was consolidated under the Sarawak Government through a joint initiative between Yayasan Sarawak and Sarawak Skills. Today, i-CATS stands as a private university owned by the Sarawak Government, firmly aligned with the state’s strategic development goals and committed to driving Sarawak’s future talent development and innovation.