On June 22, 2025, Thammasat Institute of Area Studies, Thammasat University, organized the TIARA International Conference on Asia-Pacific Futures: Opportunities for Connectivity at the Prince Palace Hotel, Bangkok.
This international academic conference presents an important opportunity to foster academic cooperation, higher education research, and to enhance Thailand’s role as a regional hub for academic collaboration in the Asia-Pacific.
This international conference delves into seven pivotal themes at both regional and global levels 
Multilateral Cooperation
Cultural Connectivity
Sustainability and Climate Change
Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Tourism Development
Digital Connectivity
Public Policy and Local Governance
The program features a variety of activities, including keynote addresses, plenary discussions, and research presentations by scholars from over 20 countries around the world
The event began with a welcome address by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanyaporn Sunthorntham, Director of the Thammasat Institute of Area Studies, Thammasat University,
followed by the opening remarks from Prof. Dr. Supasawat Chatchawan, Rector of Thammasat University.
The keynote speaker was Prof. Dr. Anek Laothamatas, former Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. Honorable Speaker included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kristoffer B. Berse of the University of the Philippines – National College of Public Administration and Governance and GRIT Labs, and Assoc.Prof.Dr.Somjai Phagaphasvivat, an independent scholar in economics and politics.
Session 1: Southeast Asia Connectivity and the Role of India in the ASEAN Region Guest speakers included:
Dr. Suwit Mangkhala – Deputy Director-General, Department of ASEAN, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Prof. Dr. Agus Pramusinto – President, Association of Public Administration (AAPA) and Indonesian Association of Public Administration (IAPA), Universitas Gadjah Mada
Dr. Lizan Perante-Calina – Dean, Graduate School of Public and Development Management, Development Academy of the Philippines; Executive Director, Philippine Society for Public Administration (PSPA)
Assoc. Prof. Surat Horachaikul – Associate Professor, Department of International Relations, Faculty of Political Science, and Director, Indian Studies Center, Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University
Assoc. Prof. Sida Sonsri – Member, TIARA International Organizing Conference Committee
Session 2 (Afternoon): Religion, Dharmaraja and Development: Comparative Perspectives Guest speakers included:
Dr. Sonam Kinga – Former Chairperson, National Council of Bhutan
Phra Medhivajarapundit Prof. Dr. (Hansa Dhammahaso) – Abbot of Wat Mai (Yai Paen); Director of the International Buddhist Studies College, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University
Mr. Worapoj Ruenrerngwong – Founder and CEO, Chosen Digital Co., Ltd.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phuri Phuwongcharoen – Dean, Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University
Additionally, the afternoon program featured simultaneous sessions showcasing academic work and research presentations on the international stage.
