KUCHING: The Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026 has been positioned as a strategic international platform linking global aerospace and aviation players with emerging opportunities across Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding aerospace ecosystem.
General Tan Sri Datuk Seri Affendi Buang RMAF (Retired) who is the adviser of Borneo Business Connect Sdn Bhd said aerospace is inherently global, and Sarawak places strong emphasis on developing human capital as the foundation of a resilient and competitive aerospace ecosystem.
“Sarawak is advancing targeted skills training, structured education pathways and robust industry–academia collaboration, while positioning itself to move up the value chain through the manufacturing of aerospace component parts and advanced systems.
“This reflects Sarawak’s aspiration to be not merely a user of aerospace technology, but a meaningful contributor to regional supply chains and a producer of high-value aerospace capabilities,” he said in his welcoming remarks on Tuesday (Jan 27).
Affendi said Sarawak’s selection as host was described as timely and deliberate, given its strategic location near the equator and at the heart of Asean, supported by strong government commitment, forward-looking policies and long-term strategic initiatives.
He said these initiatives include investments in space-related technologies, the development of aerospace and aeronautical infrastructure and the establishment of Air Borneo, aimed at strengthening capability, resilience and greater self-reliance in managing the state’s aerospace and aviation future.
“APACE 2026 is being held over three days and is expected to bring together more than 1,000 delegates, 3,000 visitors, over 100 exhibitors and 60 speakers across conferences, exhibitions, technology talks and high-impact networking platforms.
“The programme is structured around key pillars including space technology, aviation growth, sustainable and green aviation, digital aerospace, aerotropolis development and talent development for aerospace excellence.”
APACE 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst for deeper collaboration and long-term partnerships across the aerospace and aviation value chain at both regional and international levels.
