Wawasan Open University (WOU) will host the 4th International Conference on Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics (ICiMR 2026) from November 3 to 4, 2026 at its Penang campus.
The hybrid event is organised in partnership with Sunway University, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara, with backing from the Penang State Government through the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
First held in 2023, the annual gathering connects global researchers, engineers and technology developers with Penang’s electrical, electronics and manufacturing base. Penang recorded 22.4 billion ringgit (US$5 billion) in approved manufacturing investments across 232 projects in 2025.
The 2026 edition will focus on the practical translation of research into industrial applications, covering topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, cyber-physical production systems, digital twin technology and the Industrial Internet of Things.
The two-day programme includes keynote addresses, industrial roundtables, technical talks and research presentations. Submissions for original research papers, case studies and technology evaluations remain open until October 1, 2026.
“Penang is expanding into higher value capabilities such as IC design, validation, advanced packaging, semiconductor equipment, automation, and AI enabled manufacturing, making it a highly relevant setting for international research and industry dialogue on intelligent manufacturing and robotics,” said Yap Eng Hwa, vice-chancellor of Wawasan Open University.
“Through ICiMR 2026, WOU and our partners aim to strengthen the connection between research and industrial practice, encourage joint academic and industry initiatives, and support the development of solutions that contribute to more intelligent, resilient, and sustainable manufacturing systems… we hope this collaboration will extend to new research relationships, joint outputs, and practical initiatives and knowledge exchange that continue beyond the two-day programme.”
