Sarawak To Host 9th WSDN International Research Conference 2026
KUCHING: Sarawak has been accorded the honour of hosting the 9th World Society of Disaster Nursing (WSDN) International Research Conference 2026, scheduled to take place at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from 17 to 19 September.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said the organisation of the international-level conference, the first of its kind to be held in the state, marks a significant recognition for Sarawak, serving as a strategic platform for the exchange of emergency technologies, innovative solutions and practical approaches aimed at reinforcing disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts.
He noted that the conference is particularly timely as the frequency of natural disasters continues to rise, driven in part by global climate change.
“This conference, being held in Sarawak for the first time, is highly significant for the state as host.
“We are all aware that natural disasters, whether we are prepared or not, are becoming more frequent, with some linked to climate change.
“Last year, for instance, we witnessed the worst flooding in Bintulu, alongside various other incidents that were previously unforeseen,” he said at a press conference on the 9th WSDN International Research Conference 2026 at BCCK on Thursday.
The Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government said the conference is expected to draw about 500 delegates from around the world, providing Sarawak with an opportunity to exchange expertise, broaden collaborative networks and enhance the capacity of local institutions in disaster management.
Datuk Amar Dr Sim added that the participation of countries such as Japan, which has extensive experience in managing natural disasters, would enrich deliberations and contribute valuable insights to conference participants.
Also present were WSDN Chairperson Professor Dr Sonoe Mashino, BESarawak Acting Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo, Chairperson of the conference Dr Nurul’Ain Ahayalimudin and Head of the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) Department of Nursing Dayang Zuraina Abang Kashim. -UKASnews
