KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its efforts to become a competitive green aerospace hub in the region with the upcoming Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026, which will take place from 27 to 29 January 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, said the inaugural international conference is set to bring together the global aerospace community.

He noted that APACE 2026 reflects the state government’s commitment to advancing the aerospace sector, as well as developing advanced engineering and green technology as new drivers of economic growth.

“This is more than just another conference, APACE 2026 will be a significant gathering that connects the global aerospace and aviation community,” he said during the APACE 2026 press conference at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex on Thursday.

Dato Sri Roland Sagah also shared that the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, will officiate the event on 27 January 2026.

He explained that APACE 2026 will centre on four key pillars: the development of an aerotropolis, the adoption of digitalisation and advanced technologies in aerospace, the shift towards sustainable aviation powered by green energy, and talent development to nurture a highly skilled future workforce.

“The event is expected to draw over 3,000 visitors, more than 1,000 delegates, upwards of 50 exhibitors and over 60 distinguished speakers.

It will feature more than 50 conference sessions, including participation from the National Aerospace Industry Corporation (NAICO Malaysia), NACO Netherlands, the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and NOVASPACE from France,” he said.

He also revealed that several discussions are in their final stages, with five to seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) expected to be signed during the conference, reflecting strong global investor interest and confidence in Sarawak’s growing aerospace ecosystem.

Also present at the press conference were Deputy MEITD Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee, MEITD Permanent Secretary Datu Adana Jed, and Borneo Business Connect Sdn Bhd Executive Director Nadzeem Abd Rahman. -UKASnews

Reporter: Nur Nabilla
Photographer: Hazrin Sunaini
Translator: Uilson Ng