Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia should capitalise its strong aerospace ecosystem and must maximise its potential to drive industry growth, said Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) deputy secretary-general (Industry), Datuk Hanafi Sakri. He said the aerospace industry aims to increase its revenue to RM55 billion by 2030 from a revenue of around RM20-21 billion currently, noting that much more needs to be done to achieve this target.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hanafi highlighted Malaysia's advantage in having a comprehensive ecosystem that includes human resources, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), as well as engineering facilities. "This is a strength which we must fully utilise," he stated after officiating the MyAERO TVET 2025 Symposium at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.

He emphasized the government's commitment to monitoring the implementation and progress of these initiatives through dedicated committees and relevant agencies. "Nothing in this country happens by chance. We plan strategically, set clear objectives, execute carefully, and track progress through agencies such as the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia," Hanafi remarked.

Malaysia's aerospace sector is witnessing rapid growth fueled by increasing air traffic and a thriving tourism industry. Hanafi cited the Sarawak state government's recent acquisition of MASwings as evidence of growing opportunities in the sector. "What we need now is the right platform to ensure all stakeholders can play their role in strengthening Malaysia's aerospace ecosystem," he added.

The MyAERO TVET 2025 Symposium aims to enhance workforce development in the aerospace industry through collaborations between the government, industry players, and educational institutions. The event also saw the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the government and industry players to bolster training programs and advance aerospace technology development.