In response to increasingly complex and interconnected global crises, the World Society of Disaster Nursing (WSDN) will convene healthcare professionals and emergency disaster managers in Sarawak for the 9th International Research Conference of the World Society of Disaster Nursing (WSDN 2026).
Scheduled from 17 to 19 September 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), WSDN 2026 is expected to welcome more than 500 delegates from across the globe. Held under the theme “Accelerate Networking: A Catalyst to Go Over the Horizon”, the conference will provide a dynamic platform for dialogue and collaboration on emerging technologies, innovative practices, and practical strategies aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness, response, and recovery within diverse healthcare systems.
In addition to advancing professional knowledge and international collaboration, WSDN 2026 is projected to generate an estimated RM4.1 million in Total Economic Impact for Sarawak and support more than 300 jobs, contributing positively to the state’s tourism, hospitality, and services sectors.
“From natural disasters to public health emergencies, Sarawak understands the importance of preparedness and resilience. WSDN 2026 aligns strongly with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 by strengthening resilient, inclusive, and future-ready systems in the field of public health. While disaster response differs across regions, this conference allows us to build a common understanding of more sustainable ways to protect lives and support communities during disasters,” stated The Honourable Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak, who chaired today’s press conference.
“Beyond advancing the global medical and disaster nursing agenda, WSDN 2026 provides a platform to examine how local communities can play an active role in disaster preparedness and response. This emphasis on shared outcomes, capacity building, and long-term value reflects Sarawak’s commitment to collaborative, impact-focused business events that deliver meaningful benefits for people and communities,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).
“This year, WSDN 2026 will integrate technology more deeply into its programme through the use of Augmented Reality in Tabletop Exercises (AR-TTX), a more realistic learning approach that simulates real-life disaster situations. AR-TTX allows participants to strengthen responses and facilitate better decision-making in real emergencies,” said Dr Nurul’Ain Ahayalimudin, Conference Chair of WSDN 2026. “We believe technology plays a critical role in strengthening how we prepare for and respond to emergencies, hence innovation and technology in disaster nursing and emergency response are one of the key focus areas of WSDN 2026.”
The conference will feature internationally recognised experts in disaster nursing and emergency response, including Prof. Dr Aileen M. Marty from the University of Miami (USA), Prof. Dr Jamie Ranse from Griffith University (Australia), and Prof. Dr Sonoe Mashino from the University of Hyogo (Japan), alongside leading regional practitioners and researchers contributing to the advancement of disaster healthcare globally.
WSDN 2026 is organised by the Kulliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), with support from the World Society of Disaster Nursing (WSDN), Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), and the Association for Malaysian Emergency Nurses (AMEN).
Emergency responders, disaster managers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers are encouraged to participate in WSDN 2026 and contribute to strengthening global disaster preparedness and response capabilities. For further information on conference highlights, registration, and participation opportunities, please visit www.wsdn2026.com..