S’wak’s international science, health and engineering conference, SHInE 2026 to draw 300 global participants

Sagah (centre) and others at the press conference of Sarawak SHInE International Conference 2026 held at TROPI on April 2, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, April 2: Sarawak is ramping up efforts to position itself as a regional innovation hub, with 300 international participants expected to attend the Sarawak Science, Health, Innovation & Engineering (SHInE) International Conference 2026 this September at Imperial Hotel Kuching.

Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the conference, scheduled for September 9 to 11, 2026 will unite experts, researchers, and industry leaders under one roof.

“This conference is part of our ongoing effort to make Sarawak a hub where research, innovation, and practical solutions come together.

“SHInE 2026 is a multidisciplinary conference that brings together local and international researchers, professionals, industry leaders, and partners.

“Our goal is to collaborate, exchange ideas, and tackle some of the biggest challenges facing science, health, and technology today,” he added speaking at the press conference held in Sarawak Tropical Peat Research (TROPI) here today.

He said this year’s theme, ‘Advancing Science, Health, Innovation and Engineering’, reflects the State’s push to strengthen collaboration across sectors.

“SHInE is all about connection, bringing together researchers, industry, policymakers, and partners from Malaysia and beyond to share ideas and explore ways to work better together,” he said.

The conference, organised by the Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) and the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC), reflects the State’s focus on research excellence.

Over 30 expert speakers will headline 30 sessions, with participation from Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Australia, Cambodia, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Among confirmed speakers are Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin, Prof Tuck Seng Wong, Prof Peter Eastwood, and Dato’ Prof Dr Norlida Buniyamin.

According to Sagah, panel discussions will tackle scaling innovation and fast-tracking sustainable technologies for climate resilience in Sarawak.

He said attendees will engage in networking, visits, and showcases, including tours to the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre and the Sarawak Science Centre, set to open on July 29.

Another highlight is youth engagement through the SRDC BrightSparX Programme, featuring the Premier’s BrightSparX Innovation Award for young innovators.

With support from international partners such as Asia PGI and the UKSEA Vax Hub, the conference will serve as a platform for global collaboration.

“Our goal is simple: create opportunities for collaboration, spark new ideas, and build connections that lead to real impact.”

He expressed hope that participants could contribute to the event’s success and share the experience with family and friends.

Also present were MEITD Deputy Minister of Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, MEITD permanent scretary Anelia Siam, SRDC general manager Dr Peter Morrin Nission, SIDC cheif executive officer Dr Ivan KS Yap and TROPI research officer Dr Faustina Elfrida Sangok. — DayakDaily