Follow our exclusive interview with Prof Dr Hushairi Zen, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at i-CATS, as he shares why the Premier’s plan for a renewable energy faculty at the university college is a game-changer for Sarawak’s clean energy future.
International Day of Clean Energy: Powering Sarawak’s future
AS the world rallies behind the urgent need for sustainability, Sarawak stands poised to lead the way in clean energy innovation.
At the heart of this bold vision is i-CATS University College, set to embark on an ambitious journey thanks to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s recent announcement.
The Premier’s plan to establish a dedicated faculty for renewable energy studies at i-CATS has sparked anticipation, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s educational and energy sectors.
For Professor Dr Hushairi Zen, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at i-CATS, this initiative represents more than an institutional achievement — it’s a transformative opportunity to reshape education, drive industry innovation, and position Sarawak as a key player in the global energy transition.
In an exclusive conversation with Sarawak Tribune, Dr Hushairi shared his thoughts on this visionary plan and its potential to redefine Sarawak’s role in the clean energy landscape.
All opinions expressed by him are his own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of i-CATS.
Sarawak Tribune: How do you feel about the Premier’s plan to establish a dedicated renewable energy faculty at i-CATS, positioning Sarawak as a leader in clean energy?
Dr Hushairi: The Premier’s plan is a visionary and timely initiative. As the global focus shifts towards sustainability, establishing a dedicated renewable energy faculty at i-CATS positions Sarawak as a key player in the transition to clean energy.
This initiative not only highlights the state’s commitment to sustainable development but also places Sarawak at the forefront of innovation and green technology. It’s an exciting opportunity for the academic and engineering community to contribute to global energy solutions while benefiting local industries and communities.
In what ways do you see this initiative enhancing the growth and reputation of i-CATS’ engineering programmes?
This initiative will elevate the academic standing of i-CATS, attracting students, researchers, and industry partnerships both locally and internationally.
By incorporating cutting-edge research and hands-on training in renewable energy, our engineering programmes will become a hub for innovation. It will also create new pathways for interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating expertise from various engineering fields to address complex energy challenges.
Ultimately, it will solidify i-CATS as a leader in preparing graduates who are well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving energy sector.
Does the Premier’s plan effectively address both the immediate and long-term need for local talent in Sarawak’s energy sector?
Yes, the plan addresses both immediate and long-term needs. In the short term, it will fill the talent gap by producing skilled engineers and technicians ready to work in Sarawak’s growing renewable energy projects.
In the long term, it will foster a culture of innovation, enabling the state to generate homegrown solutions and reduce reliance on external expertise. The faculty will also nurture a pipeline of leaders and innovators who can drive Sarawak’s clean energy agenda for decades to come.
What challenges do you foresee in transforming this vision into reality, and what strategies could help overcome them?
Key challenges include attracting and retaining qualified experts (academics and researchers), developing state-of-the-art facilities, and aligning academic programmes with the evolving needs of the energy sector.
Additionally, we must address the rural-urban divide in accessing education. Strategies to overcome these challenges include:
• Offering competitive packages to attract top talent in renewable energy.
• Forming partnerships with industry players for funding, facilities, and practical training opportunities.
• Engaging with rural communities to raise awareness about the programme and provide pathways for their participation.
• Establishing a robust feedback loop between industry, academia, and government to ensure curricula remain relevant.
How crucial is collaboration between government, academia, and industry in ensuring the success of this initiative?
Collaboration is absolutely essential. The government provides the vision, funding, and policy framework; academia delivers research, innovation, and talent development; and industry brings real-world application, expertise, and job opportunities.
Without alignment between these three entities, the initiative risks falling short of its potential. Effective collaboration ensures that research translates into impactful solutions, students graduate with relevant skills, and Sarawak’s energy goals are met efficiently.
As announced by the Premier, free education will be available to eligible students entering the faculty. How do you plan to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from rural areas, are encouraged and supported to join the programme?
We will work closely with schools and community leaders in rural areas to raise awareness about the programme and its benefits. Outreach programmes, such as roadshows and workshops, will showcase the career opportunities in renewable energy.
Additionally, we will offer preparatory courses and academic support to help students from diverse backgrounds meet entry requirements. Establishing mentorship programmes and partnerships with rural schools will further encourage students to pursue this pathway.
Finally, ensuring that the faculty offers a welcoming and inclusive environment will help retain and support these students throughout their academic journey.
What message would you like to convey to students, faculty, and industry stakeholders about this plan and its potential to shape Sarawak’s clean energy future?
To all the students in Sarawak, I would say: This is your chance to be part of something transformative. Renewable energy is the future, and you have the opportunity to contribute to a greener, more sustainable Sarawak.
To my faculty members, I encourage embracing this vision with enthusiasm and using your expertise to guide the next generation of innovators.
To industry stakeholders, I urge you to join us as partners in this exciting journey. Together, we can position Sarawak as a leader in clean energy, not just locally but globally. Let us all work together to make this vision a reality for the benefit of our community and the environment.
As the conversation drew to a close, one thing was clear: the renewable energy faculty at i-CATS isn’t just an academic project — it’s a beacon of hope for a greener, brighter future for Sarawak and beyond.
The establishment of this faculty marks a pivotal moment in Sarawak’s clean energy journey. It aligns with the goals of the International Day of Clean Energy by fostering innovation, empowering communities, and addressing pressing environmental challenges.
As Dr Hushairi eloquently stated, “This is our chance to make a difference. Let’s seize it.”
Under i-CATS’ leadership, this groundbreaking initiative promises to celebrate progress while inspiring a new generation of leaders to advance the state’s renewable energy evolution.
