Penang: Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) will host the ninth edition of its flagship World Engineering, Science and Technology Congress (ESTCON 2026) from Sept 8 to 9 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC). The event, under the theme "Technology, Resilience and Regeneration: Engineering Pathways to a Sustainable Future," is set to be inaugurated by Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Chang Lih Kang.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the congress aims to bring together over 1,000 delegates from more than 20 countries to tackle pressing issues such as energy security, sustainable living, and the regeneration of natural capital. ESTCON 2026 will feature three specialized international conferences: the International Conference on Sustainable Living (ICSL), the International Conference on Energy Security (ICES), and the International Conference on Regenerative Futures (ICRF). UTP stated that these conferences will provide a platform for multidisciplinary discussions on sustainable communities, resilient energy systems, and regenerative development.
The two-day event will highlight more than 30 internationally recognized speakers and feature over 330 technical paper presentations across various fields, including sustainable infrastructure, energy transition, artificial intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and advanced materials. Keynote speakers include Petronas Senior Vice President of Malaysia Petroleum Management Datuk Dr Bacho Pilong, who will discuss "Energy Security in Transition: Reimagining the Future of Oil and Gas," and Prof Niall Mac Dowell from Imperial College London, who will address "Engineering Resilient Energy Systems for New Order of World."
Additional sessions of interest include Prof Nadia Magnenat Thalmann of the University of Geneva presenting on "Regenerative Quantum AI Systems: Moving from Creative Machines to Living Intelligence," and Petronas Property Advisor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif discussing "Designing Low-Carbon Futures with AI and Digital Innovation."
UTP has invited industry professionals and organizations to participate as Non-Presenter Delegates (NPDs) for a fee of RM1,200, which includes access to keynote addresses, technical sessions, panel discussions, and the accompanying Technology and Innovation Exhibition. A special group offer is available, allowing organizations to register five NPDs and receive one complimentary pass.
The event is HRD Corp claimable and provides Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, recognized by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and the Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT).