KK to host MGS–GeoSS Geotechnical Conference

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 12): The highly anticipated 3rd MGS–GeoSS Geotechnical Conference and Exhibition is set to take centre stage from 11th to 13th November 2026 at the prestigious Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

The MGS-GeoSS Geotechnical Conference initiated under a Memorandum of Understanding between MGS and GeoSS was to be held alternately between the two countries. The first edition was held in Kuala Lumpur in 2019 while the second edition was held in Singapore. In keeping with this tradition, the third edition of the conference series — the 3rd MGS–GeoSS Geotechnical Conference 2026 — will be hosted in Malaysia.

Building on the involvement of MGS Committee members from Sabah in the successful hosting of the 42nd Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations (CAFEO 42) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in October 2024, the Malaysian Geotechnical Society (MGS) decided to also hold the third edition of this conference in Kota Kinabalu reflecting strong confidence in Sabah’s proven capability, infrastructure, and commitment to delivering high-calibre international engineering events.

Representatives of MGS paid a courtesy call to Public Works Department (JKR) Sabah director Datuk Ir Philemon Lajawai on February 11 to formally invite him to deliver a keynote address at the upcoming 3rd MGS-GeoSS Geotechnical Conference.

The courtesy call reflects the important role of JKR as a key stakeholder in national infrastructure development. The Conference Organising Committee looks forward to the director’s participation at the event, particularly in light of the Conference theme, “Advancement in Geotechnical Engineering: Shaping the Future of the Built Environment”. The theme resonates strongly with ongoing national and regional priorities focused on sustainable, climate-resilient, and future-ready development.

The joint organising committee of MGS and GeoSS had committed and pledged that; “This joint conference symbolises the strong collaboration between Malaysia and Singapore in the field of geotechnical engineering. The participation of JKR’s leadership will significantly elevate the discourse on shared challenges and innovative solutions for sustainable urbanisation and infrastructure resilience in Southeast Asia”.

The 3rd MGS-GeoSS Geotechnical Conference 2026 is expected to attract over 250 delegates, including renowned international experts, academics, researchers, consultants, and contractors from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The programme will feature keynote speeches by world authorities, parallel technical sessions, an extensive exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and services, and networking events designed to foster professional exchange and business opportunities.