MACRO 2026 Strengthens Sarawak's Position As Global Innovation Hub
KUCHING: The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) 51st World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2026) has further strengthened Sarawak's position as a global innovation hub, bringing together over 800 scientists, researchers, academicians, industry players and policymakers from 64 countries to foster scientific collaboration and technological advancement towards a sustainable future.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said Sarawak's selection as the host of the prestigious congress reflects the international scientific community's confidence in the state's ability to contribute to global research and innovation.
“The IUPAC World Polymer Congress is being held in Southeast Asia for only the second time, which demonstrates the international scientific community's confidence in our capabilities.
“All of you contribute to global research, innovation and scientific advancement, and that is the very purpose of your presence here,” he said while officiating at MACRO 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Tuesday.
He said the theme ‘New Polymers and Innovative Materials for a Sustainable Future’ aligns closely with efforts to address global challenges such as climate change, resource efficiency, sustainable manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energy and the development of a circular economy through advances in polymer science.
According to the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Sarawak is actively pursuing economic transformation under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 which places strong emphasis on science, technology and innovation-based development while leveraging the state's hydropower resources, hydrogen economy, petrochemical industry and rich biodiversity to drive the growth of high-value industries.
Sarawak's rich biodiversity also presents significant opportunities for research into bio-based materials and the discovery of new polymers, while collaboration with international researchers remains crucial in accelerating the exploration and commercialisation of research outcomes, he said.
Datuk Amar Dr Sim also stressed that advances in polymer science have far-reaching impacts across multiple sectors, including healthcare through the development of medical devices, drug delivery systems, biodegradable implants and diagnostic technologies that can improve quality of life.
Held from 28 to 31 July at BCCK, MACRO 2026 is organised by the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (IKM) under the auspices of IUPAC.
The congress brings together participants from around the world to discuss the latest developments in polymer science and advanced materials.
Also present were IKM President Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh, MACRO 2026 Organising Chairman Professor Dr Rusli Daik and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews
