The 13th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) theme “Disruptive change: Impact and challenges” is a clear reflection of the volatile global economic environment, WIEF Foundation Chairman Musa Hitam said.

He said the theme was also in line with digital economy – a favourite subject in many countries.

“When I came to Sarawak to discuss about WIEF, Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Abang Openg said Sarawak is in the midst of adopting digital economy, a visionary move which suits current and future needs.

“In line with the theme, WIEF will be featuring Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, a renowned figure in the digital arena,” he told a press conference after chairing a meeting to coordinate the upcoming forum between WIEF and Sarawak government representatives here today.

Also present was Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

The 13th WIEF, which will be held at the Borneo Convention Centre here from Nov 21 to 23, is scheduled to be officiated by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Among leaders who will be speaking at the forum include Tatarstan President Rustam Nurgaliyevich Minnikhanov, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Ghanaian Vice-President Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Abang Johari.

Other international speakers, who will be sharing their insights at the forum, include vice-president of Islamic Development Bank Dr Mohamed Nouri Jouini, chief economist of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce Andreas Hatzigeorgiou, co-founder and chief executive officer of Mybazar Armin Osmancevic, and blockchain lead at Rand Merchant Bank South Africa Farzam Ahsani.

Awang Tengah, who was also co-chairman for the 13th WIEF, said to date, about 2,200 participants had registered for the event.

- Bernama