P r o g r a m

At-A-Glance Program

Earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and celebrate the world’s navigable rivers at Smart Rivers 2027. Conference topics include… 

Waterway Infrastructure

Smart Shipping and Waterways

Climate Change and Community

Logistics

Rivers and River System Management

Additional IW Topics

14jun8:00 AM3:00 PMCAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP : "IW MANAGEMENT in SOUTH ASIA"

14jun2:00 PM5:00 AMRegistration & Exhibition Setup

14jun5:00 PM8:00 PMIce Breaker Reception

15jun8:00 AM10:00 AMOpening Ceremony

15jun10:00 AM12:00 AMPlenary Session 1: Tropical River Dynamics (tentative)

15jun1:00 PM3:00 PMTechnical Sessions 1a (4 Parallel Tracks)

15jun4:00 PM6:00 PMTechnical Sessions 1b (4 Parallel Tracks)

15jun7:00 PM10:00 PMADD AN EVENT FOR ALL

16jun8:00 AM10:00 AMTechnical Sessions 2a (4 Parallel Tracks)

16jun11:00 AM1:00 PMTechnical Sessions 2b (4 Parallel Tracks)

16jun2:00 PM5:00 PMTechnical Sessions 3a, 3b (4 Parallel Tracks)

16jun6:00 PM9:00 PMGala Dinner: "Srivijaya Night" (Cultural Performance)

17jun8:00 AM9:00 AMKEY NOTE PRESENTATIONS

17jun10:00 AM9:00 AMTechnical Sessions 4a (4 Parallel Tracks)

17jun1:00 PM5:00 PMClosing Ceremony

17jun6:00 PM10:00 PMFree Evening / Young Professionals Networking

11junAll DayEXCOM

18jun8:00 AM5:00 PMTechnical Tours Optional - Choose one Additional costs 50 USD

12jun8:00 AM7:00 PMCouncil, Commission meetings INCOM, PIANC WGs Other PIANC meetings as FINCOM

19jun8:00 AM5:00 PMPost-Conference Cultural Tour

Program Elements

Technical Tours

Technical Tours provide participants the opportunity for experiential learning: tour land- and water-based sites and learn about the innovative methods and technology used to propel inland waterborne navigation successes. Separate registration and additional fees may be required.

Short Courses

Technical short courses will be offered to enhance professional development and grow networking opportunities for inland navigation professionals.

Keynote Speakers

All event speakers invited to present at Smart Rivers 2027 are recognized experts in their fields. As thought leaders in the inland navigational network, expect that they will bring fresh insights and new perspectives.

Guest Program

Registered participants can bring a guest at an added cost. Events covered under the accompanying guest program are Monday’s opening reception, the Wednesday evening social and one of the 2 technical tours available on Thursday afternoon.

Explore Palembang

Palembang offers a unique blend of historical significance, cultural identity, and modern readiness. As the former capital of the Sriwijaya maritime empire, it represents the roots of the Malay river-based civilization. Its rich river culture is reflected in iconic cuisine like pempek. The city is also well-equipped with world-class infrastructure developed during the 2018 Asian Games, including LRT, international airport, and quality accommodations. Supported by major river-based state-owned enterprises, Palembang ensures strong industry engagement. Strategically located, it is easily accessible within 1–2 hours from key hubs such as Singapore, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur.