KUCHING – The Sarawak Local Authority Conference (PBT) 2026 has been held in Kuching, serving as a key platform to strengthen urbanisation management and foster collaboration among local councils across the state.
The two-day event, which took place at VOCO Hotel on 16 and 17 July 2026, was attended by Yang Berhormat Datuk Dr Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Junaidi, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, who also acts as Project Coordinator for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and Islamic Affairs. He was joined by Yang Berbahagia Dato Haji Hilmy bin Haji Othman, Mayor of Kuching North.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister of Housing and Local Government, Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who represented the Premier of Sarawak. In his remarks, he emphasised the importance of local authorities working together to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation while ensuring inclusivity and sustainability in city planning.
The conference brought together representatives from all local authorities in Sarawak, providing a platform to exchange experiences, share best practices, and discuss new strategies for managing urban growth. Topics included sustainable development, digitalisation, smart city initiatives, and improving service delivery to residents.
Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) showcased its ongoing projects through an exhibition highlighting innovations in smart city management. These included digitalisation efforts aimed at improving efficiency, sustainability programmes designed to reduce environmental impact, and initiatives to enhance services for city residents. The exhibition demonstrated DBKU’s commitment to modernising urban governance and aligning with global trends in smart city development.
Urbanisation has become a pressing issue in Sarawak, particularly in fast-growing areas such as Kuching, Miri, and Sibu. Local authorities are tasked with balancing infrastructure expansion, environmental sustainability, and community needs. Conferences such as PBT 2026 provide a structured forum for councils to align their strategies with state and national development goals.
Experts note that urbanisation management is not only about physical infrastructure but also about fostering social cohesion and ensuring equitable access to services. By integrating digital technologies and sustainable practices, local authorities can create cities that are more resilient and adaptable to future challenges.
The conference also highlighted the role of local authorities in supporting Sarawak’s broader development agenda. With the state aiming to position itself as a leader in sustainable growth, local councils are expected to play a pivotal role in implementing policies that promote green initiatives, smart technologies, and inclusive urban planning.
Participants agreed that collaboration among councils is essential to address shared challenges such as waste management, traffic congestion, housing, and public safety. By pooling resources and expertise, local authorities can deliver more effective solutions and improve the quality of life for residents across Sarawak.
The Sarawak Local Authority Conference 2026 concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation and enhancing urban management practices. The discussions and exhibitions underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity in shaping the future of Sarawak’s cities.
