Myanmar Minister Attends World Engineering Day 2026 in Jakarta, Focusing on Sustainable Development

Union Minister for Industry Dr. Charlie Than represented Myanmar at the inaugural Asian edition of World Engineering Day (WED) 2026, held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from March 3rd to March 5th. The event, themed “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future,” was organized by the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers Indonesia (PII), with support from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Participation in High-Level Dialogue and Panel Discussion

Dr. Than attended the opening ceremony of the “High-Level Dialogue on Strategies and Visions” session on March 4th at the Balai Kartini Convention Center in Jakarta. Later that day, he participated in a panel discussion likewise centered on the theme “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future.” The panel included former WFEO President Mr. Mustafa Shehu, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Ms. Meutya Viada Hafid and Deputy Minister of Public Works Ms. Diana Kusumastuti.

Emphasis on Human Resource Development

During the panel discussion, Dr. Than emphasized the critical role of human capital in the successful implementation of smart engineering within developing nations. He argued that acquiring technology is insufficient; building a skilled workforce capable of deploying, managing, and maintaining advanced systems is equally vital. He advocated for competency-based education systems to foster the advancement of smart engineering in developing countries. Dr. Than expressed his hope for collaborative efforts to build an inclusive and sustainable future, positioning smart engineering as a pathway to resilient, competitive, and sustainable prosperity.

Myanmar Delegation

Dr. Than was accompanied by Myanmar Engineering Council Chairman Dr. Aung Kyaw Myat, WFEO Committee on Engineering Education Standing Committee Chair Dr. Zaw Min Aung, and Federation of Myanmar Engineering Societies Vice-President U Tin Latt.

Return to Myanmar

The Union Minister departed from Jakarta Airport on March 5th at 1:05 local time, arriving back at Yangon International Airport at 2:00 a.m. On March 6th.