Since its inception, the International Conference on Drones and its Applications (IConDA) has established itself as a premier platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among scientists, academicians, industry leaders, and policymakers in the field of computer and drone technologies and related applications. The first IConDA was successfully held at Damai Beach Resort on 9–11 November 2017, attracting 375 participants. Building on this success, the second IConDA took place at Kampus Samarahan 2, UiTM Sarawak on 19–21 December 2019, drawing more than 208 participants and reinforcing its reputation as a hub for innovation and networking. The momentum continued with the third IConDA in 2022, which featured expanded participation and enriched technical sessions, further cementing the conference’s role in advancing research and practical applications in computer and drone technologies.
To sustain this trajectory of excellence, the UiTM Sarawak is hosting the fourth IConDA on 28, 29 & 30 September 2026 in Kuching, Sarawak.
2026 Conference Theme
“AI and Robotic Driven Sustainable Futures: Innovation, Resilience, and Inclusive Growth“
The theme “AI and Robotic Driven Sustainable Futures: Innovation, Resilience, and Inclusive Growth” highlights the vital role of emerging technologies in addressing global and regional challenges. It aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting innovation, sustainable industries, smart communities, and climate action.
At the regional level, the theme supports the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 by advancing digital transformation and fostering innovation-driven growth. It also complements the Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
Through this theme, IConDA 2026 provides a platform to connect global sustainability priorities with Sarawak’s vision for a digitally empowered and future-ready society.
Venue
Kuching, Sarawak
Situated on the northwest coast of Borneo, Kuching—the capital of Sarawak—stands at the forefront of Malaysia’s digital transformation, making it a compelling and strategic host city for IConDA 2026. Beyond its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, Kuching is the epicenter of the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, a visionary plan launched to transform the state from a conventional resource‑based economy into an environmentally sustainable, technology‑driven powerhouse. The Blueprint aims to position Sarawak as a leading digital economy and society by 2030, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and environmentally responsible growth. This bold commitment to digital advancement—built upon initiatives encouraging new business models, fostering start‑ups, empowering communities with digital skills, and driving AI‑ and data‑powered development—aligns seamlessly with the conference’s focus on intelligent systems, robotics, and drone technologies. As such, Kuching offers not only an inspiring backdrop for academic and industry discourse but also a living example of a region actively shaping its digital future, making it the perfect venue for IConDA 2026.
Organizer
Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
UiTM is the largest comprehensive university in Malaysia, providing innovative education with state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology within reach at its 34 campuses, 24 faculties, 7 academic centres and 2 institutes of leadership and development across the country.
UiTM has consistently been ranked among the top institutions in various reputable rankings, both locally and globally. Among these accolades are the Times Higher Education (THE), UI GreenMetric, and the QS World University Rankings. The university has also received recognition for its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. UiTM was further honoured with the title ‘Employers’ Choice of University’ by Talentbank and has maintained outstanding performances in the SETARA rating and MyRA score, as recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education. These achievements serve as a testament to UiTM’s academic and research excellence, as well as its graduates’ employability on the global stage.
Technical Co-Sponsor
The technical co-sponsor of IConDA 2026 is the IEEE Computer Society Malaysia Chapter. With close to 100,000 members worldwide, the IEEE Computer Society is a leading global organisation for computing professionals.
Established in 1946, it is the largest among the 37 societies under the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). The Society aims to be the foremost source of technical knowledge and services for computing practitioners around the world.
The IEEE Computer Society Malaysia Chapter plays a key role as both an organiser and a member of the technical programme committee, supporting and enhancing computer-related initiatives for IConDA. Its involvement ensures that the conference programme remains current, innovative, and technically robust.