KUALA LUMPUR, 18 April 2026 – Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) today officially launched DATUM International Conference 2026, marking a significant milestone for Malaysia’s architectural and built environment community.
The launch was officiated by YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications and Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, who underscored the importance of platforms like DATUM in fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue and strengthening connections between communication, culture, technology, and urban development. He noted that architecture is not only a manifestation of progress, but also a reflection of national identity and collective aspirations.
As one of the region’s leading international platforms, DATUM Conference continues its tradition of convening global and regional voices to explore the evolving role of architecture in shaping society. The 2026 edition, themed “Future Culture,” highlights how the built environment responds to rapidly changing social, technological, and environmental contexts.
The conference will take place from 29 July to 1 August 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, featuring 25 speakers across four series—DATUM:KL, DATUM Plus, DATUM Tech, and DATUM GBI. The programme includes internationally recognised speakers such as Lyndon Neri, Paola Cattarin, Steven Ding, and Andy Rahman, among others.
DATUM Conference 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme of keynote lectures, technical sessions, and knowledge-sharing forums, bringing together international experts and local practitioners. Open to the public, tickets are available via the KLAF official website at www.klaf.my.
A joint statement by PAM and KLAF leadership highlighted that DATUM Conference 2026 reflects a shared commitment to advancing architectural discourse at both regional and international levels. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the conference aims to address pressing challenges—from sustainability and technology to cultural identity—while encouraging new ways of thinking about the future of the built environment.
Held in collaboration with Visit Malaysia 2026 and KPKT, the conference also supports Malaysia’s ambition to position itself as a regional hub for architectural innovation and discourse.
With strong participation expected from both local and international delegates, DATUM Conference 2026 is set to reinforce its standing as a key event in the regional architectural calendar—highlighting the role of architecture in shaping resilient, sustainable, and culturally grounded cities for the future.
