Kuching, Sarawak With just over 300 delegates expected, ICM 2026 will not be Sarawak’s largest international meeting. Its importance lies in the fact that the congress speaks directly to the region’s ambitions in semiconductors, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.
The 38th International Conference on Microelectronics will bring researchers, engineers and industry professionals to Kuching from 7 to 10 December 2026, returning to Malaysia after an absence of more than three decades. The programme will be centred on the Borneo Cultures Museum, an unusual setting for conversations about the hardware powering the next generation of technology.
ICM arrives as Sarawak works to develop its semiconductor ecosystem under its Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030. Discussions will examine circuits, systems and microelectronics, including how better hardware can make AI faster, more energy-efficient and more sustainable.
“The next big step for AI is not only about smarter software, but also building better and more efficient technology to power it,” said Dr Fakhrul Zaman Rokhani, General Chair of ICM 2026.
The conference is expected to generate around RM2.5 million in economic impact. For Business Events Sarawak, however, its longer-term value will be measured through research links, industry collaboration and greater access to international expertise for local professionals and young talent.
Organised through the IEEE Circuits and Systems Society community, ICM 2026 offers a clear example of how a relatively compact specialist congress can support a much larger economic strategy.