Malaysia: Malaysia is hosting the 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Region (DGCA/61) from September 7-11, 2026, gathering over 500 participants from 35 countries. This event is recognized as one of the region's most significant civil aviation gatherings.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) stated that the conference convenes directors general of civil aviation, senior government officials, regulators, international organizations, and aviation industry leaders from across the Asia and Pacific region. The theme, 'Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable and Efficient Aviation', underscores the aviation community's commitment to embracing innovation and emerging technologies while maintaining high standards of safety, security, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
Throughout the five-day conference, delegates will discuss key priorities shaping the future of civil aviation, including aviation safety and air navigation, aviation security and facilitation, environmental sustainability, economic development, capacity building, and regional cooperation. Additional discussions will focus on the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, digitalization, and innovation to enhance regulatory capabilities, improve operational resilience, and support the sustainable growth of air transport in the region.
Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook emphasized that Malaysia's hosting of DGCA/61 reflects the country's commitment to fostering stronger regional and international cooperation in civil aviation. He noted that DGCA/61 offers an important platform for exchanging perspectives, strengthening cooperation, and developing practical approaches to the opportunities and challenges posed by emerging technologies.
CAAM's chief executive officer, Datuk Captain Norazman Mahmud, highlighted that the strong participation in DGCA/61 demonstrates the region's shared commitment to building a safer, more resilient, and future-ready aviation ecosystem. He expressed that as host, CAAM looks forward to facilitating meaningful discussions that translate technological progress into tangible improvements for regulators, industry, and the traveling public.
CAAM noted that the conference provides an important platform for International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Member States and aviation stakeholders to exchange knowledge, present working papers, share best practices, and identify coordinated approaches to addressing common and emerging challenges. The outcomes from the conference will contribute to advancing ICAO's strategic objectives and strengthening the region's collective ability to respond to the evolving aviation landscape.