KUALA LUMPUR: International Construction Week (ICW) & BuildXpo Malaysia 2026 is targeting RM2 billion in potential business transactions, up from RM1.4 billion recorded last year, supported by higher international participation, technology showcases and co-locations.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan said the event aims to attract 20,000 visitors, compared with 15,987 last year.
“We hope the potential sales will increase to RM2 billion in sales from RM1.4 billion. We also hope attendance can rise to 20,000 from 15,987 last year,” he said at a press conference after the soft launch of ICW & BuildXpo Malaysia 2026 today.
Ahmad said the event should show how Malaysia can use existing construction technology to complete roads, bridges and buildings faster and more efficiently. “The ministry’s responsibility is to introduce and showcase new technologies that can elevate our construction standards. We want to showcase the potential of future technologies.”
Ahmad cited a 10-storey building in China was completed in 28 hours using the Modular Precast System, while a 100km four-lane highway in India was built in 100 hours and recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records.
“In contrast, in Malaysia, a 10-storey building took 10 years to complete and was only recently officiated by the prime minister, namely Hospital Seberang Jaya. There is also a 40km highway project that takes 10 years to complete,” he said.
ICW Borneo will take place on May 12-13 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, as a precursor to the main ICW event at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur. The goal is to connect East Malaysia with Peninsular Malaysia and international construction markets.
Last year’s ICW & BuildXpo generated RM1.41 billion in projected business transactions, drawing 210 exhibitors from 11 countries and 15,987 trade visitors, representing a 23% increase in turnout.
For 2026, organisers are targeting 250 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions and 20,000 trade visitors, comprising contractors, consultants, engineers, architects, manufacturers, suppliers, property developers and facility managers.
The event will feature business matching sessions involving 20 buyers from 10 countries and regions.
ICW & BuildXpo 2026 is hosted by the Ministry of Works and the Construction Industry Development Board, and managed by Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Qube Integrated Malaysia executive chairman Richard Teo said that, over the years, ICW & BuildXpo has become a pivotal hub for the industry, bringing together policymakers, innovators, businesses and professionals to exchange ideas, explore solutions and shape the future of construction.
“As we move towards ICW & BuildXpo 2026 under the theme ‘Beyond Limits’, our focus remains clear to elevate the platform so that it delivers tangible value to the industry, supports innovation adoption and strengthens regional connectivity across Asean and beyond,” he said.
ICW & BuildXpo this year will welcome Glasstech Asia & Fenestration Asia 2026 (GAFA 2026) to elevate Malaysia’s profile in the global built environment.
GAFA, organised by Messe Munchen International (MMI) Asia Pte Ltd, is a showcase that will be held in conjunction with ICW & BuildXpo 2026.
GAFA 2026 is expected to showcase 350 exhibitors across one exhibition hall at BuildXpo 2026. GAFA 2026 will focus on glass and window, glass manufacturing equipment and machinery, façades and chemicals.
MMI Asia CEO Michael Wilton said GAFA has developed a regional presence through editions in Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Singapore, providing a platform for industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas and strengthen the regional glass and façade sector.
“By joining ICW & BuildXpo this year, GAFA will be part of a platform where industry expertise, project development and sector innovation converge. This approach strengthens collaboration, promotes knowledge exchange across disciplines and reflects the interconnected nature of the modern construction industry,” he added.
