Reflecting Global Scientific Trust: Sarawak Hosts World Polymer Congress

(Kuching, 29th) The hosting of the 51st International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) 2026 World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2026) brings together over 800 scientists, researchers, academics, industry participants and policy makers from 64 countries, to strengthen scientific collaboration and technological development towards a sustainable future, thereby consolidating Sarawak's status as a global innovation hub.

 

Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian, said that Sarawak being chosen as the host for this distinguished congress demonstrates the international scientific community's confidence in Sarawak's ability to contribute to global research and innovation advancement.

 

“As far as I know, this is the second time that the IUPAC World Polymer Congress is held in Southeast Asia, which further proves the international scientific community’s trust in our capabilities. Everyone is here to contribute to global research, innovation, and scientific advancement, which is the core purpose for everyone meeting here.”

Sim Kui Hian made these remarks yesterday while officiating the opening of the 2026 World Polymer Congress at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

 

He pointed out that the theme, “New Polymers and Innovative Materials for a Sustainable Future”, aligns well with efforts to use advancements in polymer science to address global challenges such as climate change, resource efficiency, sustainable manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energy, and the development of a circular economy.

 

Sim Kui Hian said that Sarawak is currently actively implementing its post-COVID-19 development strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), a strategy emphasizing development based on science, technology, and innovation, while leveraging hydropower, the hydrogen economy, petrochemicals, and rich biodiversity to stimulate high-value industries.

 

He stated that Sarawak’s rich biodiversity also opens up opportunities for research into bio-based materials and the discovery of new polymers, and that cooperation with international researchers is crucial to accelerating exploration and commercialization of research achievements.

 

He also emphasized that the development of polymer science has had a tremendous impact across various sectors, including improving the quality of life through the production of medical devices, drug delivery systems, biodegradable implants, and diagnostic technologies.

 

The 2026 World Polymer Congress, being held from July 28 to 31 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, is organized by the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (IKM) under the sponsorship of IUPAC. With the theme "New Polymers and Innovative Materials for a Sustainable Future," it gathers participants from around the world to discuss the latest developments in polymers and advanced materials.