Thailand-Australia: Opportunities and Challenges in a Volatile World 

The Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Program Management Unit for Area-Based Development (PMUA), has organized the inaugural Asia Forward Series under the theme “Thailand-Australia: Opportunities and Challenges in a Volatile World” on January 7, 2025, at the Music Hall of the Art and Culture Building, Chulalongkorn University. 

The event was opened by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Poon Thiengburanathum, Deputy Director for Organizational Strategy and Planning, PMUA. It featured a keynote address by Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, Minister of Commerce, and a report by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika Sriratanaban, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University. The event drew a significant audience from diverse sectors both locally and internationally. 

Keynote Highlights 

Her Excellency Ms. Arjaree Sriratanaban, Thailand’s Ambassador to Australia, presented a special lecture titled “Australia – Thailand Connectivity in a Changing World.” She emphasized strategic connectivity between Thailand and Australia in a rapidly evolving global context. 

Panel Discussion 

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion on “Australia-Thailand Connectivity in a Changing World,” featuring insights from: 

• Asst. Prof. Dr. Sineenat Sermcheep, Director of the ASEAN Studies Center, Faculty of Economics, Chulalongkorn University   
• Mr. Seksan Anantasirikiat, Senior Researcher, Center for International Studies 

Advancing Research into Policy   

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika Sriratanaban highlighted the significance of the Asia Forward Series as an initiative to elevate research into actionable policy. The series aims to integrate academic findings with real-world applications to create tangible, wide-reaching impacts. 

Far from being merely a forum for discussion, the Asia Forward Series aspires to foster policy linkages and extend innovations derived from research to advance Thai society across economic and social dimensions. It also focuses on preparing for a constantly changing and uncertain global environment. 

Long-Term Vision   

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika underscored the long-term goals of the Asia Forward Series as a platform for exploring contemporary regional issues. The initiative seeks to deepen understanding of critical topics such as Food Security and the Green Transition, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ultimately, the project aims to symbolize transformative development, driving policy changes and creating impactful innovations for society. 

The Asia Forward Series exemplifies Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and addressing pressing global challenges through collaboration and innovation. 

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