KUCHING: The inaugural International Construction Week (ICW) Borneo 2025 has officially commenced at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), marking a significant milestone for East Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region. Organised by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia in collaboration with Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (Qube), the event underscores Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable and innovative construction practices as the country takes on the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025.
The two-day event, themed “Innovative Construction for a Sustainable Future”, has attracted a wide array of participants, including policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and innovators. The official opening was presided over by the Premier of Sarawak, The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, with the Honourable Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works, also in attendance. The presence of these senior leaders highlights a firm commitment to sustainable infrastructure development, aligning with Malaysia’s National Construction Policy 2030 and the ASEAN Vision 2045.
Addressing the gathering, the Premier of Sarawak emphasised the state’s proactive role in the green transition, describing Sarawak as a crucial player in shaping sustainable infrastructure not only within Malaysia but across Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the Minister of Works underscored the significance of ICW Borneo 2025 as a platform that transcends industry networking, positioning it as a catalyst for resilient and forward-thinking infrastructure development in the region.
As Malaysia leads the ASEAN development agenda under its 2025 Chairmanship, ICW Borneo 2025 serves as a key platform to promote sustainable construction, green energy innovation, and digital transformation. It reflects Malaysia’s ambition to establish itself as a regional hub for resilient, technology-driven, and inclusive infrastructure growth.
Coinciding with the main event, the ASEAN Build Construction Working Group (BCWG) Meeting is taking place at the Sheraton Hotel Kuching. This strategic forum unites ASEAN member states to enhance cooperation in standardising the construction sector, addressing technical regulations, and reducing trade barriers. The meeting aims to foster a more integrated and resilient construction industry within the region.
One of the highlights of ICW Borneo 2025 is the Construction Sustainability Summit (CSS), a thought leadership forum featuring prominent figures from across ASEAN. Notable speakers include the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, The Honourable Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who discussed advancing sustainable construction and renewable energy in the state. Prof. Ir. Dr. Resdiansyah from Indonesia also shared insights on the country’s infrastructure development. The summit also features expert panel discussions on climate-resilient infrastructure, smart city innovation, and sustainable construction materials, involving industry leaders from Sarawak Energy Berhad, Gamuda Engineering, and international sustainability experts.
Adding to the event’s dynamic presence is BuildXpo, the official trade showcase of ICW, featuring cutting-edge technologies from 32 local and international exhibitors. Among them are CIDB IBS, Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA), and Serendah Steel Manufacturing Sdn Bhd. The exhibition highlights innovative building systems, smart technologies, and sustainable construction materials, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to modernising the construction landscape.
In addition, the event includes a series of specialised conferences and workshops focusing on construction revolution practices, project management, and facility management. These sessions aim to equip industry professionals with the knowledge and skills required to navigate the evolving landscape of Construction 4.0. On 15 May, participants will also engage in technical site visits to key energy facilities in Sarawak, including the Sejingkat Power Plant and the Hydrogen Production Plant and Refueling Station.
Puan Zainora Zainal, Chief Executive of CIDB, highlighted the strategic importance of ICW Borneo 2025 as a turning point for the industry. By bringing together leading minds and organisations, the event aims to accelerate innovation and strengthen collaboration in the ASEAN construction sector.
As the first edition held in East Malaysia, ICW Borneo 2025 signifies Sarawak’s readiness to lead sustainable infrastructure development. The event serves as a prelude to the 27th edition of ICW & BuildXpo 2025, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur this October, further positioning Malaysia as a leader in advancing the region’s construction sector.
