ASEAN Advances Regional Research Infrastructure with EU Support

The 4^th ASEAN Regional Research Infrastructure (RRI) Taskforce Workshop, held in Bangkok from 13 to 15 January 2025, marked a key step in advancing ASEAN’s efforts to build a more inclusive and connected research ecosystem. Attended by around 20 regional and international experts, the three-day workshop focused on finalising the ASEAN RRI Strategy and aligning it with the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology, and Innovation (APASTI) 2026–2035.

Organised by Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MHESI) and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), the event was supported by the ASEAN Secretariat and the European Union (EU) through the Enhanced Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (E-READI). The resulting strategy provides a roadmap and implementation plan aimed at addressing disparities in research infrastructure across ASEAN’s ten Member States.

Addressing Gaps and Strengthening Collaboration

Despite ASEAN’s growing research community, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to advanced facilities. The RRI Strategy aims to bridge these gaps by promoting shared infrastructure and fostering collaboration among Member States. It reflects ASEAN’s broader goals of inclusivity and innovation, aligning with its post-2025 vision.

The EU has been a long-term partner in ASEAN’s journey to strengthen research capacity, providing technical support and facilitating dialogue. Since 2022, the EU through E-READI has supported the establishment of a dedicated RRI Taskforce, studies to identify infrastructure needs, and workshops to gather input from diverse stakeholders. These efforts have provided a strong foundation for the strategy’s development.

Bridging Communities through Research

The ASEAN RRI Strategy is expected to benefit researchers across the region by improving access to shared facilities and encouraging collaboration on regional and global issues. While the strategy is still in its early stages, it represents an important step towards building a more integrated and innovative research ecosystem.

The EU’s involvement highlights the importance of international partnerships in addressing shared challenges. The strategy aligns with global priorities such as addressing climate change, health security, and digital transformation, showcasing the potential for ASEAN to contribute to solutions on a larger scale.

Looking Ahead

As the strategy moves into the implementation phase, ASEAN will focus on turning plans into actionable outcomes. The aim is to ensure that researchers, regardless of their location, have access to the tools and facilities needed to drive progress and innovation across the region.

The finalisation of the ASEAN RRI Strategy underscores the value of collaboration and shared vision. While there is still much work to be done, the workshop represents a meaningful step forward in creating a stronger, more connected research landscape in Southeast Asia.

Learn more about E-READI’s support in strengthening ASEAN’s Regional Research Infrastructure:

• Experts, policymakers, researchers contribute to ASEAN Regional Research Infrastructure Strategy at EU-ASEAN Workshop, 28-29 May 2024
• 3rd ASEAN RRI Taskforce Workshop on Refining Strategy, 18-19 November 2024
• ASEAN at ICRI 2024: Exploring New Opportunities for Research Infrastructure Collaboration 2-6 December 2024