Participant profiles

Participants

Simon Kumar Das

Research Fellow 
Tropical Aquafeed Innovation Lab 
James Cook University

Simon Kumar Das

Dr. Simon Kumar Das is a Research Fellow at the Tropical Aquafeed Innovation Lab in the Department of Marine Biology and Aquaculture, James Cook University, Australia. His current research focuses on grouper nutrition and physiology, with an emphasis on developing effective, species-specific diets to enhance growth, health, and production performance. By addressing key nutritional bottlenecks, his work contributes to the sustainable expansion of grouper aquaculture in Asia and Australia.

Before joining James Cook University, Dr. Das worked for 12 years at the National University of Malaysia, where he served as an Associate Professor. There, he led research on how fish respond to environmental stressors such as global warming and ocean acidification. His work has significantly contributed to understanding the physiological impacts of climate change on aquaculture species and ecosystems. Dr. Das has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles, presented at more than 40 international conferences, and authored two books. He has led several national and international research grants, supervised numerous postgraduate students, and actively collaborated with researchers worldwide through joint projects and publications.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Das has worked with the State Government of Victoria, Australia. He currently serves as a board member and treasurer of Aquaculture without Frontiers (AwF) Australia, a non-profit organisation focused on advancing global food security through sustainable aquaculture initiatives. He has also worked with NuSea.Lab at Deakin University, Australia as a visiting research fellow and is an active member of several international professional bodies, including the Asian Fisheries Society, the Fisheries Society of the British Isles, and the American Fisheries Society. Dr. Das brings over a decade of global research experience, underpinned by a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the sustainable development of aquaculture.

Maya Liyana Hamzah

Project Coordinator, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Maya Liyana Hamzah

Maya Liyana Hamzah is a Project Coordinator at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) with expertise in environmental research, coastal ecosystems, blue carbon, mangrove restoration, and applied innovation. She holds an MSc in Environment and Development from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and a BAppSc in Natural Resources Science from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan.

Maya has coordinated several international projects, including MEITA on mangrove ecosystem monitoring, InnoVet-AMR on reducing antimicrobial resistance in shrimp aquaculture, and IMTA-ResQ on climate resilience in aquaculture. She is currently developing QS Aqua Technology, a UPM-InnoHub startup focused on sustainable aquaculture solutions.

Kobboon Kaewpila

Research assistant, Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment Laboratory (LCSAL), The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment (JGSEE), King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangmod Campus (KMUTT), Thailand

Kobboon Kaewpila

Dr Kaewpila graduated with a Ph.D. in Biology from the Faculty of Science, Mahidol University. His thesis focused on environmental science, biology, toxicology, and plant physiology. His passion for understanding complex environmental and biological systems laid a strong foundation for his transition into interdisciplinary research and career after graduation.

He is currently working as a Research Assistant at The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment (JGSEE), King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), under the supervision of Prof. Shabbir Gheewala — Thailand’s leading expert in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). At JGSEE, he has gained extensive experience in applying LCA methodologies, sustainable development, and holistic environmental impact assessments across various sectors including agriculture, aquaculture, energy, and manufacturing.

One of his responsibilities includes coordinating with the AQUADAPT-Nature Project, which promotes sustainable aquaculture practices that can adapt to climate change using nature-based climate solutions. This collaboration has provided him with knowledge about innovation, evaluation, and adoption of nature-based climate solutions in real-world aquaculture farms. It has also strengthened his engagement and networking with various stakeholders in the aquaculture industry. During this project, he developed methodologies for assessing the effectiveness of nature-based practices through literature review and field-survey data collection to evaluate holistic environmental impact using LCA, economic feasibility, and ecosystem services provided to the community. He is currently interested in promoting sustainability in the aquaculture sector and mitigating environmental impacts. His long-term career goal is to become a university lecturer and a leading researcher in the areas of LCA, environmental impact assessment, and aquaculture.

Nissara Kitcharoen

Co-founder/CTO, NineBio Group, Co.,Ltd

Nissara Kitcharoen

Nissara Kitcharoen is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Fisheries Technology and Aquatic Resources, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. She earned a B.S. in Fisheries with First Class Honors from Kasetsart University in 2005 and a Ph.D. in Aquaculture from the same university in 2011.

Dr. Kitcharoen was recognised as the best student in the Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries at Kasetsart University for three consecutive academic years (2001-2003) and was a recipient of the Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D. Program from the Thailand Research Fund (2005-2011). Her work has been honored with the Best Overall Poster Presentation at the International Symposium on Genetics in Aquaculture XI, a Silver Award at the Korea International Women’s Invention Exposition, and a Gold Award at the Innovation Competition. Dr. Kitcharoen's work history includes roles as a Research Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Lecturer, and Assistant Professor, accumulating expertise in Genetics and Breeding in Aquatic Animals, Selective Breeding Programs in Aquaculture, and general Aquaculture practices.

Andrew Ng

Managing Director, DeepBlue Aquaculture Sdn. Bhd.

Andrew Ng

Dr. Andrew Ng is the Managing Director of DeepBlue Aquaculture Sdn. Bhd., which is a part of a group of companies that represents the world’s largest and longest-standing producers of soft shell crabs. The business was first established in 2002 and currently exports about 1,800 metric tons per year to the worldwide market. At DeepBlue, Andrew is responsible for developing and executing the corporate strategy to expand the business while adhering to the company’s values in scientific innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility.

In his previous industry role, Andrew was a Managing Consultant and Practice Lead at Lumanity, a business strategy consultancy firm based in the USA and UK, where he helped to research and advise biopharma clients on the scientific and commercial opportunities and challenges for innovative, next-generation therapeutics.

Andrew earned his BSc and PhD at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he led collaborations with the University of Pennsylvania in deploying a leading proteomics platform to characterise genes that regulate bone development and skeletal aging. During this time, he also worked within the University’s Business Entrepreneur Partnerships team to help in spinning out academic technologies.

Rocky Pairunan

Ocean and Plastic Waste Manager, World Resources Institute (WRI)

Rocky Pairunan

Mr. Rocky Pairunan is the Ocean and Plastic Waste Manager at the World Resources Institute (WRI) Indonesia, as well as the Lead for the Secretariat of the Indonesia National Plastic Action Partnership NPAP Indonesia.

Prior joining the WRI Indonesia, he was Senior Advisor for the Marine Plastic Litter projects implemented by GIZ Indonesia, namely Rethinking Plastics and 3RproMar; Environment Officer for the ASEAN Secretariat; and Planning Officer for the Directorate General Marine and Small Islands Affairs-Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Republic of Indonesia. Rocky has a degree in socio-economic fisheries with a MSc in Marine Spatial planning and Management.

Dang Pham

Head of Aquaculture Department, Rynan Aquaculture

Dang Pham

Dang Pham is a project manager with over five years of experience at RYNAN, a leading company in sustainable aquaculture solutions. His expertise lies in the application of IoT technology to revolutionise the shrimp farming industry, focusing on Southeast Asia while also making significant contributions globally. Dang’s journey in the aquaculture sector began during his undergraduate studies in Biotechnology at Can Tho University. He actively participated in numerous projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of farmers through scientific advancements in agriculture and aquaculture. His passion for innovation continued to grow, and he pursued a Master of Science in Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology at AIT, Thailand. During this time, he specialised in developing nanoencapsulation processes to enhance the nutritional value of aquafeeds.

After returning to Vietnam, Dang Pham joined RYNAN, where he contributed to several groundbreaking projects. His dedication to the sustainable aquaculture industry led to his pursuit of a PhD, where he focused on applying molecular biology techniques to develop algae vaccines for shrimp. His scientific research has led to the creation of several products that address critical challenges in aquaculture and has resulted in at least three granted patents related to aquaculture technologies, as well as additional patents for other innovative solutions.

In the past two years, after completing his MBA, Dang transitioned to the role of project manager at RYNAN Smart Aquaculture. In this role, he oversees research, development, and commercialisation efforts within the aquaculture industry. Working alongside a dedicated team of engineers, he has been instrumental in deploying the TOMGOXY model, an innovative solution that integrates mangrove forest conservation, IoT devices, and advanced technology to make shrimp farming more efficient. The TOMGOXY model optimises resource usage, reduces costs, protects the environment, and ensures sustainable production, contributing to greater value creation in the aquaculture sector. With a relentless drive to create positive change, Dang Pham continues to build on his expertise and contribute to the global revolution in sustainable aquaculture, aiming to drive meaningful advancements in the industry and promote sustainable development worldwide. 

Yin Yin Phyu

Co-founder & Business Development Director, Greenovator Pte.Ltd. 

Yin Yin Phyu

Yin Yin is the Co-founder and Business Development Director at Greenovator Pte.Ltd., driven by a passion to uplift rural farming communities. Her dedication was solidified through years of work with NGOs. As a US Government IVLP Green Entrepreneur, she gained valuable insights into sustainable development practices. Recognised as a leading female social entrepreneur in Myanmar, Yin Yin advocates for digital rights, particularly for women in rural areas.

She extends her commitment to regional collaboration as a young secretariat member of the Mekong Extension Learning Alliance and an Ambassador for Women in AI, representing Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. In this role, she promotes the integration of AI for social good.

Since October 2015, Yin Yin has been with Greenovator Pte.Ltd., contributing to planning, marketing, communication, market research, and financial controlling. Before that, since May 2011, she is also a Co-Founder and Technical Team Member at Green Way Agri-Tech Team. Yin Yin holds a B.Agr.Sc in Horticulture from Yezin Agriculture University. Additionally, she has participated in the eMasterclass of the eTrade for Women programme organised by the United Nations.

Adibi Rahiman Md

Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Cweedaquasolutions

Adibi Rahiman Md 

Dr. Adibi Rahiman Md. Nor is a multidisciplinary marine biologist and aquaculturist at Universiti Malaya who focuses on developing sustainable community aquaculture policy, innovation, and techniques for improved livelihoods. Adibi holds a PhD degree from Newcastle University, UK, with over 20 years of experience in the fisheries industry. As a former Department of Fisheries Malaysia officer, Adibi contributed to the development of national seaweed policy, influencing regulations, commercialisation, and funding mechanisms that have strengthened the industry’s Foundation.

Adibi’s work has significantly impacted Malaysia’s local seaweed industry by pioneering innovative, sustainable cultivation methods, such as Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) and Regenerative Aquaculture systems, which have improved seaweed quality, enhanced disease management, and optimised the extraction of valuable compounds for food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and bioplastics industries.

His leadership as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Cweedaquasolutions in commercial-scale seaweed cultivation projects, particularly in Johor and Kedah, has created new economic opportunities for local communities, especially unemployed women, through job creation and technology transfer. He has also championed the use of artificial intelligence for post-harvest quality control, helping ensure food safety and enabling the meeting of higher standards for both local consumption and export markets.

Through these initiatives, Adibi has elevated the status of seaweed as a superfood, expanded its market reach, empowered marginalised groups, and positioned Malaysia as an emerging global seaweed producer. He is passionate about making aquaculture development sustainable and equitable for the local community and the environment.

Wanilada Rungrassamee

Principal Researcher and the Director of the Biosensing and Bioprospecting Technology Research Group, BIOTEC

Wanilada Rungrassamee

Dr. Wanilada Rungrassamee is a Principal Researcher and the Director of the Biosensing and Bioprospecting Technology Research Group at the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC) in Thailand. Dr. Rungrassamee's research expertise is centered on understanding the complex interactions between hosts and microbes, with a particular emphasis on aquaculture systems. In her research, she employs multi-omics technologies to explore the complex world of shrimp gut microbiota, driven by the goal of contributing to sustainable aquaculture practices and enhancing shrimp health. Dr. Rungrassamee demonstrates a strong commitment to generating real-world impact, dedicating her efforts to translating her research findings into tangible benefits for the aquaculture industry and promoting environmental sustainability.

Throughout her career, Dr. Rungrassamee has received several honors and grant awards, including the Excellent Research Award by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. She has also been selected for programs such as the ASEAN BCG Researcher Development Program and the EURASTIP Staff Exchange (EU Horizon 2020 Program).

Beyond her research, Dr. Rungrassamee is actively involved in teaching and mentoring. She has served as a guest lecturer at several Thai universities, including Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, and Thammasat University, where she teaches courses in molecular biology, omics technologies, and related areas. She also supervises undergraduate and graduate students, fostering the development of future scientists.

Dr. Rungrassamee's scholarly contributions are evident in her extensive list of peer-reviewed publications in international journals and her impact on the field through patents and editorial roles for respected journals such as Aquaculture, Microbiology Spectrum, and Reviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture.

Elisa Claire Sy

CEO and Founder, E-Primate Inc. (RAS P.I.N.A.S.)

Elisa Claire Sy

Ms. Elisa Claire Sy is the visionary CEO of E-Primate Inc. and the pioneering Founder of RAS P.I.N.A.S., the first operational commercial-scale intensive indoor Recirculating Aquaculture System in the Philippines. With an unwavering commitment to creating solutions for hunger, thirst, and homelessness, Elisa has redefined the boundaries of aquaculture to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Elisa’s academic foundation—a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from De La Salle University (DLSU) and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Guidance Counseling—equipped her with the patience, empathy, and critical thinking needed to navigate through the complexities of fish farming. Her entry into aquaculture, without formal training in the field, allowed her to think outside the box, relying on real-world practice over textbook theories.

Together with her co-founder, Elisa developed innovative products and implemented a management style that is both systematic and practical. Through the cycle of trial and error, she embraced failures as opportunities for learning and discovering innovative principles that eventually gave birth to RAS P.I.N.A.S.—a groundbreaking system that is designed to create impactful, scalable solutions for aquaculture.

Before founding E-Primate, Elisa served as Marketing Director for a paint manufacturing company, a role that allowed her to travel extensively across the Philippines. These experiences deepened her understanding of the struggles faced by the average Filipino, sparking her resolve to contribute meaningfully to society. For Elisa, aquaculture is more than a business—it is a platform for transformation, one that begins with the essentials: access to quality education and proper nutrition. Through RAS P.I.N.A.S., Elisa seeks to empower and inspire change—one where no one is left behind.

Sukmit Teekhasenee

CEO, ICM Electronics Co., Ltd.

Sukmit Teekhasenee

Sukmit Teekhasenee, founder of AQUATIC, is revolutionising aquaculture with a smart paddlewheel control system that prevents fish mortality and saves electricity costs. Driven by a deep understanding of farmers’ challenges, he established AQUATIC to boost productivity and sustainability through real-time monitoring and automation. At its core, AQUATIC uses advanced optical DO sensors and temperature detectors to activate aerators only when needed when dissolved oxygen or water temperature drop outside ideal ranges. Farmers can customise settings per paddlewheel, set thresholds, and receive real-time alerts via LINE. An auto-cleaning sensor mechanism ensures long-term accuracy with minimal maintenance.

More than just a tool, AQUATIC adapts to each farm, records daily data, and supports smarter decision-making. It runs autonomously while giving farmers full control, saving time, effort, and money. Summit's mission is simple: build accessible, intelligent technology that empowers farmers to thrive. AQUATIC isn’t just about keeping fish alive, it’s about transforming how aquaculture works for the better.

Tachawin Wiwattanasopa

CEO and Co-Founder, Triofarm Co. Ltd

Tachawin Wiwattanasopa

Mr. Tachawin Wiwattanasopa is a Computer Engineering graduate from King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi. With a strong passion for programming and innovation, he has continuously applied his technical expertise to create meaningful technology solutions. Growing up in a shrimp farming family—his father has been a shrimp farmer for over 30 years—Tachawin witnessed the challenges in aquaculture firsthand, inspiring him to develop technologies that can significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of shrimp farming.

In the past, Tachawin led the development of JustSigns, a web application that automatically generates 3D sign language captions for YouTube videos. The tool enables hearing-impaired viewers to watch videos alongside sign language animation, helping reduce the need for human interpreters and making media more accessible and inclusive.

Currently, Tachawin is the CEO and Co-Founder of Triofarm Co., Ltd., a company dedicated to developing innovative aquaculture technologies for shrimp and fish farming. His mission is to empower aquaculture farmers with smart tools that increase productivity, optimise farm management, and promote sustainable practices. Through Triofarm, he combines his technical background and deep agricultural roots to drive positive change in the aquaculture industry.

Burhanuddin Zein

Program Manager, Konservasi Indonesia

Burhanuddin Zein

Mr. Burhan is Program Manager for Fisheries and Aquaculture Program at Konservasi Indonesia. He has experienced more than 15 years in program on natural resources management and conservation with a demonstrated history of working in the international research institution (ICRAF-CIFOR) and International NGO's Wildlife Conservation Society and IDH Sustainable Trade Initiatives. Several projects focus on fisheries resources and marine sustainable development, aquaculture, conservation of marine biodiversity, fisheries and coastal livelihoods in coral triangle region from donors such as USAID, KfW EU and BMU IKI Germany.

Burhan graduated from Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science - Bogor Agriculture University and Max-Planck Institute Marine for Microbiology, Bremen-Germany and pursued research and course on Beahrs Environmental Leadership Program conducted by Sustainable Environmental Management College of Natural Resources Center for Sustainable Resources Development, University of California, Berkeley, USA.

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