By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 28: The hosting of the 51st International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2026) has further cemented Sarawak’s position as a global hub for innovation, as the prestigious event brings together more than 800 scientists, researchers, academics, industry leaders and policymakers from 64 countries to strengthen scientific collaboration and advance technology development towards a sustainable future.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said Sarawak’s selection as the host for the internationally renowned congress reflects the global scientific community’s confidence in the State’s growing capabilities and contributions towards research, innovation and technological advancement.
“I understand that this IUPAC World Polymer Congress is being held in Southeast Asia for only the second time, which further demonstrates the confidence placed in our capabilities.
“Your contributions to global research, innovation and scientific progress represent the very purpose of your presence here,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of MACRO 2026 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today, as reported by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
Dr Sim said the congress theme, “New Polymers and Innovative Materials for a Sustainable Future,” aligns closely with global efforts to address pressing challenges, including climate change, resource optimisation, sustainable manufacturing, healthcare advancement, renewable energy development and the transition towards a circular economy through breakthroughs in polymer science.
He highlighted that Sarawak is undergoing a significant economic transformation under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which places strong emphasis on science, technology and innovation as key drivers of growth.
“Sarawak is also leveraging its strengths in hydropower, the hydrogen economy, petrochemicals and biodiversity resources to develop high-value industries and create new economic opportunities,” he said.
Dr Sim added that Sarawak’s rich biodiversity presents vast potential for research into bio-based materials and the discovery of innovative polymers.
He stressed that international partnerships and knowledge exchange are essential in accelerating research breakthroughs and translating scientific discoveries into commercial applications.
“Advances in polymer science have far-reaching implications across multiple sectors, particularly healthcare, where innovations such as medical devices, drug delivery systems, biodegradable implants and diagnostic technologies are contributing towards improving public health outcomes and enhancing quality of life,” he said.
Held until July 31 at BCCK, MACRO 2026 is organised by the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (IKM) under the auspices of IUPAC.
The congress serves as a global platform for experts to exchange knowledge and discuss the latest developments in polymer research and advanced materials.
Also present at the event were Malaysian Institute of Chemistry president Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh, MACRO 2026 National organising chairperson Professor Dr Rusli Daik, and other distinguished guests.— DayakDaily
