SARAWAK is positioning the Borneo Blockchain Conference as a key platform to advance its post-Covid Development Strategy 2030, as the state seeks to accelerate adoption of emerging technologies and build a stronger digital economy.
The two-day event, known as BBCON 2026, will return to Kuching on November 18-19, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and technology developers to focus on implementing digital solutions across Borneo and the wider ASEAN region.
Organisers said the conference would reflect a shift from early-stage exploration of blockchain to practical deployment. The programme will centre on areas such as trusted digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and post-quantum cryptography, with an emphasis on real-world applications in sectors including finance, healthcare and public services.
The conference at Voco by IHG Hotel Kuching is expected to attract more than 1,000 delegates, up from over 600 at its inaugural edition last year.
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The event is being organised by Kuching Blockchain Technology Association, together with Universiti Teknologi MARA Sarawak and training firm Metadise, and is supported by the Sarawak Multimedia Authority and Business Events Sarawak.
For the state government and its agencies, the conference is part of a broader push to strengthen the digital ecosystem under its long-term economic blueprint.
As Sarawak advances its digital economy agenda under PCDS [post-Covid Development Strategy] 2030 and the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, platforms such as BBCON 2026 play an important role in fostering innovation, collaboration and talent development.”
– Anderson Tiong Ing Heng,
General Manager, Sarawak Multimedia Authority
“By bringing together government agencies, industry leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs and technology practitioners, we can encourage greater knowledge exchange, strengthen our digital ecosystem and create new opportunities for sustainable growth and innovation,”
Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting CEO of Business Events Sarawak, said conferences such as BBCON played a role in shaping the state’s ambitions.
“As blockchain technology continues to reshape cybersecurity and digital trust, it is important to create platforms that encourage knowledge sharing and informed discussions around its societal impact,” Tan said.
Business events serve as powerful catalysts for these conversations, helping to build capabilities, inspire innovation and support Sarawak’s aspirations as a digitally progressive economy.”
– Jason Tan, BESarawak
Gan Beng Yoke, President of Kuching Blockchain Technology Association, said the conference marked a transition in the technology’s development.
“BBCON 2026 reflects how the conversation around blockchain and emerging technologies is evolving from awareness into implementation,” Gan said.
“This year’s edition is designed to encourage stronger collaboration between industry, academia, government agencies, startups and investors, while creating more opportunities for innovation, talent development and real-world adoption across the region.”
