Sarawak has successfully secured the hosting rights for the 11th Asia Pacific Regional Conference 2028 (APRC 2028) of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease. This achievement marks an important milestone in positioning the state as a leading destination for business events in Malaysia and Borneo. The conference will be held in Kuching from 23 to 26 March 2028, coinciding with World Tuberculosis Day. It is expected to gather more than 1,000 delegates from across the Asia Pacific region.
The event will also generate an estimated economic impact of RM8.2 million, further strengthening Sarawak’s reputation as a high-value conference destination. APRC 2028 will be the first time the conference is hosted in Borneo and only the second time in Malaysia since Kuala Lumpur hosted it in 2007. This reflects growing international confidence in Sarawak’s capabilities to host large-scale global health and scientific gatherings. The selection also highlights the strategic importance of the region in global health discussions.
Tuberculosis continues to be one of the world’s most pressing public health challenges. Issues such as drug-resistant strains, delayed diagnosis, gaps in treatment adherence, and stigma still hinder global progress. In the Asia Pacific region, diverse healthcare systems further complicate coordinated efforts to control the disease. These challenges make international collaboration and knowledge sharing more important than ever.
In Sarawak, efforts to strengthen early detection and improve access to healthcare are already in progress. One of the key initiatives includes the use of portable handheld X-ray technology by the Bintulu Divisional Health Office. This innovation helps improve tuberculosis screening, especially in rural and underserved communities. However, scaling such solutions across the wider region requires stronger partnerships and continuous innovation.
APRC 2028 is expected to play a vital role in addressing these needs by bringing together global experts, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers. The conference will focus on advancing practical solutions in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of tuberculosis. It will also strengthen cross-border collaboration and encourage knowledge exchange across sectors. The platform aims to accelerate efforts toward a tuberculosis-free future.
According to Datuk Amar Prof. Dr Sim Kui Hian, the conference aligns with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, which emphasizes healthcare equity and inclusion. He highlighted that healthcare should go beyond treatment and focus on accessibility for all communities. Strong collaboration between government, academia, and communities is essential to improve awareness, build trust, and reduce stigma associated with tuberculosis. These efforts are critical in encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.
Prof. Dato’ Dr Abdul Razak bin Abdul Muttalif, Organising Chairman of APRC 2028, emphasized the importance of bridging science, policy, and practice. He noted that the conference will feature workshops, plenary sessions, symposiums, and community outreach programmes. These initiatives aim to involve all segments of society in the fight against tuberculosis. The goal is to ensure that everyone can contribute toward a healthier future.
Business Events Sarawak also views the hosting of APRC 2028 as a reflection of the state’s growing global reputation. The conference is expected to deliver long-term legacy outcomes in line with national development goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By bringing together global stakeholders, Sarawak aims to strengthen its role in addressing critical health challenges. The event reinforces its position as a rising hub for impactful and purpose-driven business events.
