Thailand Hosts Major Asia-Pacific Science Museum Conference

Thailand formally opened the Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centres Conference 2026 (ASPAC Conference 2026) on August 19, 2026, hosted by the National Science Museum under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The four-day conference runs through August 22, 2026, at the IMPACT Exhibition Center in Muang Thong Thani, alongside the National Science and Technology Festival. Deputy Minister Supachai Pathumnakul presided over the opening ceremony, joined by NSM Acting Director Suwrong Wongsiree, National Research Council Deputy Director Sirinporn Diewtrakoorn, and international science centre representatives.

Deputy Minister Pathumnakul outlined the ministry's policy to strengthen Thailand's competitive capacity while promoting lifelong learning. He explained that hosting ASPAC 2026 alongside the science festival demonstrates Thailand's strategic readiness to serve as an international hub for science learning resources. The conference theme, "Museums Empowering Futures: Science Engagement in the Age of Uncertainty," emphasizes that modern museums must become proactive spaces connecting science to society and preparing citizens and young people for an uncertain future.

Acting NSM Director Wongsiree noted that Thailand has been honoured to host this international conference, which brings together museum leaders and practitioners to exchange experiences, showcase modern science communication innovations, and build future collaborations. National Research Council Deputy Director Diewtrakoorn highlighted the importance of science communication and public engagement in times of change, describing science museums as bridges linking cutting-edge research to the public and helping develop scientific literacy across the Asia-Pacific region.