On December 5, 2024, the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the EU through E-READI, hosted the ASEAN Side Event at the International Conference on Research Infrastructures (ICRI2024) in Brisbane, Australia. The event, titled “Exploring New Opportunities for Research Infrastructure Collaboration,” aimed to highlight the potential of ASEAN’s research infrastructure and foster international collaboration.
ASEAN, a region renowned for its economic growth, rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and an increasingly tech-savvy young population, offers untapped opportunities in research infrastructure. This side event shed light on emerging trends and unexplored potential within ASEAN’s research landscape, emphasizing the opportunities for global partnerships.
The session began with a presentation on “Why ASEAN Matters?” by Dr. Zurina Moktar of the ASEAN Secretariat, providing insights into ASEAN’s identity, location, and research capabilities. This was followed by a presentation on the ASEAN Regional Research Infrastructure Strategy (ASEAN RRI), by Ms. Sronkanok Tangjaijit, Secretary of ASEAN RRI and NSTDA’s International Relations Officer. Dr. Jostein K. Sundet, EU expert, provided an outlook on ASEAN’s research infrastructure landscape, discussing findings from an in-depth study on ASEAN's research infrastructure.
The event also showcased “Emerging Research Infrastructure Hubs,” highlighting ASEAN countries that are gaining international recognition for their advanced research facilities. Dr. Uracha Ruktanonchai, Executive Director of NSTDA’s National Nanotechnology Center, presented Thailand’s research infrastructure. Dr. R. Mohammad Subekti, Director of Nuclear Facility Management at Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), shared insights on Indonesia’s research advancements. Dr. Hazel Khoo, Executive Director of the Research Office at A*Star in Singapore, discussed Singapore’s leading-edge research infrastructure.
A panel discussion on “International Collaboration & Outlook” featured distinguished experts including Professor José Luis Martínez, Chair of the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI); Dr. Debbie Eagles, Director of the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP); Dr. Kanokporn Boonsirichai, co-chair of the ASEAN Large Nuclear and Synchrotron Facilities Network (LNSN); and Professor Michael James, Director of the Australian Synchrotron. They shared their valuable experiences in fostering international collaboration across various levels, from country-specific initiatives to global partnerships.
This side event marked a significant step in advancing the global research infrastructure community, positioning Southeast Asia as a key player in international research collaboration and setting the stage for future regional partnerships.