Sarawak is aiming to strengthen its expertise in metallurgy so the state can process its own mineral resources and produce higher-value products, boosting economic returns and creating greater benefits for the state.
Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said developing expertise in the field was crucial, particularly to enable Sarawak to process resources such as rare earth elements (REE) locally instead of relying heavily on external expertise.
He said Sarawak possesses REE resources but needs skilled manpower, scientists and researchers capable of turning those resources into higher-value materials.
“We must have the expertise because our human capital needs to be prepared, and our resource scientists must be available. Otherwise, we cannot add value,” he said.
Abang Johari said this after attending the launch of AI for Creators: Borneo Creators Festival 2026 at Tegas Digital Village in Kuching today.
He explained that metallurgy involves the study and processing of metals and minerals, including the production of advanced materials such as high-powered magnets and gallium nitride, which have applications in modern technology.
According to him, Sarawak needs to develop more local scientists and specialists who can understand and manage these processes, allowing the state to gradually build the capacity to process its mineral resources independently.
He added that developing such expertise would require greater investment in higher education and research, including encouraging Sarawakians to pursue PhD studies in relevant fields.
Abang Johari said the state’s provision of free education was also part of its broader effort to develop human capital and produce the specialised workforce needed for emerging industries.
The move is seen as part of Sarawak’s wider push to move beyond being a supplier of raw resources by developing downstream industries that can generate greater value from the state’s mineral wealth.
REE refers to a group of 17 metallic elements widely used in modern technologies, including high-performance magnets, electronic components and renewable energy equipment.
Sarawak has also been exploring the potential of its REE resources and planning the development of related industries as part of efforts to produce higher-value mineral-based products locally.
