By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, June 16: The Borneo Blockchain Conference 2026 (BBCON 2026) will return for a bigger second edition this Nov 18-19, targeting around 1,500 delegates to participate and exchange ideas on the future of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and digital technologies in shaping a secure and trusted digital future.
Kuching Blockchain Technology Association (KBTA) president Gan Beng Yoke said BBCON 2026, which is expected to take place at voco Hotel here, aims to move discussions beyond future concepts and focus on the practical application of emerging technologies.
“Today, conversations around blockchain, AI, and digital technology are no longer just about future ideas. The focus now is on how these technologies can be used in real life to improve the way we work, do business, access services, and protect information online,” he said at a press conference in Plaza Aurora, Kuching, today.
Gan noted that blockchain technology is increasingly being recognised for its ability to improve transparency, security, and trust across sectors, including banking, healthcare, public services, supply chains, and digital identity.
Following the success of its inaugural edition, which attracted more than 600 delegates last year, BBCON 2026 is expected to feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, technical sharing sessions, networking opportunities, and programmes connecting startups with investors and strategic partners.
Meanwhile, University of Technology MARA (UiTM) Sarawak rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah said the university’s participation will introduce a stronger academic component to the conference through research presentations, innovation showcases, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
He emphasised that universities serve as catalysts for research and innovation, working alongside industry to create solutions that improve lives and support societal progress.
“This blockchain conference provides a meaningful platform to connect academia, industry and the community with the support of the government in a sustainable manner,” he said.
He added that the objectives of BBCON 2026 are aligned with Sarawak’s aspirations under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, particularly in developing future-ready talents and an innovation-driven economy.
Gan said BBCON 2026 also supports Sarawak’s broader digital transformation agenda and reflects the State’s growing role as a regional hub for digital innovation and green technology in Southeast Asia.
Registration details for the conference will be announced later this month through the organiser’s official channels.
Among those present were Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) Digital Economy Implementation and Management Unit Head Shia Yang, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) Corporate Communications and Public Relations Head Agnes Nyelang, Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) Business Development (Exhibition & Homegrown) senior executive Serena Sa-or, voco by IHG Hotel Kuching Sales Director Ivan Chai, voco Sales Manager Joo Patrick Sibat, Bel Air Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd operations manager Vera Chin, and Bel Air Travel Tours sales consultant Boon Sze Xuan. — DayakDaily
