KUCHING, 3 July 2026 - Policymakers, medical professionals, researchers, investors, and industry leaders will convene in Kuching from 31 July to 2 August 2026 for the inaugural AI & Modern Healthcare Conference 2026, a regional platform designed to unite stakeholders across healthcare, artificial intelligence, and medical innovation. 

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Conference leadership and organisers 

The conference is jointly organised by Professor Alvin Liu, Endowed Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Inaugural Director of the Gills AI Innovation Centre at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and Wraparound Healthcare, founded by fellow Sarawakian Mr Kong Peng. The event is held in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), reflecting a shared commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and talent development in the region.

 

Purpose and themes 

The conference aims to strengthen collaboration among academia, healthcare institutions, industry partners, and policymakers in exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into modern healthcare systems. Discussions will centre on four core themes: 

• Preventive Care and Early Detection 

• Wearable and Remote Monitoring 

• Neuroimaging and Emergency Care 

• Longevity and AI-Assisted Diagnostics 

 

These themes highlight the transformative potential of AI in improving clinical outcomes, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding access to quality care. 

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Programme highlights 

The three-day programme features fireside discussions, keynote sessions, and expert panels led by distinguished speakers from globally recognised institutions, including Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the Faculty of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital, Singapore. 

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A dedicated healthcare hackathon will bring together teams from local Sarawak universities to develop practical software solutions addressing real-world healthcare challenges. This initiative aims to nurture young talent and encourage innovation-driven problem-solving. 

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Strengthening Partnerships and Regional Impact 

Professor Alvin Liu and Mr Kong Peng emphasised that the conference represents a unique opportunity to convene international expertise and local stakeholders for meaningful knowledge exchange. They noted that the event will help strengthen partnerships, accelerate innovation, and support Sarawak’s long-term vision for a modern, technology-enabled healthcare ecosystem. 

Professor Ahmad Hata bin Rasit, Vice Chancellor of UNIMAS, expressed pride in collaborating on an initiative that bridges research, education, and clinical practice. He reaffirmed UNIMAS’ commitment to fostering talent development and promoting the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare.

 

Community Commitment and Legacy 

During the gala dinner, scholarships in memory of the late Mr Kong Kiong Kuok will be awarded to students from low-income backgrounds, underscoring the conference’s dedication to community upliftment and educational opportunity. 

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Closing Cultural Experience 

The event will conclude with an immersive eco-tourism experience at the Semenggoh Orangutan Centre and Anna Rais Longhouse, providing international delegates with an opportunity to engage with the rich culture and unique characteristics of the region they are assisting in transforming.