Russia proposes cooperation with Sarawak in aerospace, rice research, animal feed production

Abang Johari (fourth right) and Latypov (fourth left) with other delegates during the courtesy call at Satria Pertiwi complex on Oct 27, 2026. Photo: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 27: Russia is ready to share its expertise in building rocket launch facilities and manufacturing satellites with Sarawak, opening the door to potential cooperation in developing the State’s aerospace industry.

According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Russian Ambassador to Malaysia Naiyl M. Latypov said Sarawak has potential locations for a rocket launch facility, but developing one would require supporting infrastructure, technical expertise, and a skilled local workforce.

He said Russia was prepared to share its experience in constructing rocket launch sites and cooperate with Sarawak on satellite production and capacity building.

“I hope this cooperation will benefit both parties, as we can share our experience in building rocket launch sites.

“We are also ready to cooperate in satellite production and construction, as well as capacity building,” he said after paying a courtesy call to the caretaker Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi complex here today.

He added that the proposed cooperation could extend to i-CATS University College, particularly in aerospace-related education and training.

Russia is also prepared to offer Malaysian students opportunities to study there, with Latypov hoping discussions with i-CATS University College would identify opportunities to develop local expertise.

“We have experience working with UniKL MIAT and hope similar cooperation can be extended to i-CATS University College or other universities,” he said.

Latypov said further discussions between experts from both countries would be needed to translate the proposals into concrete follow-up action.

Meanwhile, Latypov also expressed Russia’s interest in establishing agricultural cooperation with Sarawak, particularly in rice cultivation technology, agricultural research, and animal feed production, to boost productivity in the sector.

He said Russia saw potential for collaboration with Sarawak, drawing on the State’s expertise, technology, and local knowledge in rice production and veterinary science.

“We are very interested in Sarawak’s experience and capabilities in veterinary science, particularly in animal feed production, including its production methods and the types of medicines that can be developed for animals.

“We are also interested in Sarawak’s technology and knowledge in rice cultivation,” he said.

Latypov said that although Russia was known for its cold climate, its vast territory encompassed regions with varying climatic conditions, including areas suitable for rice production.

He said Sarawak’s experience and technology could lay the foundation for knowledge exchange and research collaboration to improve agricultural output. — DayakDaily