SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026 Advances International Collaboration for a Sustainable Quantum Future

A Grand Opening! “SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026” unites government, private sector, and international partners, positioning Thailand as ASEAN’s quantum innovation hub

On May 29, 2569 (2026), in Bangkok, the Quantum Technology Research and Innovation Consortium of Thailand (QTRic), together with Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) and the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC), officially launched the “SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026” at True Digital Park, Bangkok. The event runs until June 2, aiming to brainstorm and build collaboration to drive quantum technology toward solving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) challenges, as well as developing a smart economy in the Southeast Asian region.

In-depth atmosphere of Day 1 at True Digital Park

The opening day atmosphere was highly energetic, with experts, researchers, and representatives from leading domestic and international organizations participating in large numbers, with key highlights of activities as follows

Registration and video viewing: Participants registered and watched an introductory video presenting the progress of quantum technology before the official start of the program

Key Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony: A major trilateral cooperation ceremony between QTRic, qBraid (Illinois, USA), and the Center of Excellence Digitech AI Lab to jointly develop infrastructure and advance artificial intelligence laboratory research

Official opening ceremony: Welcome remarks were delivered by a representative of the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC) or assigned representative, followed by the official opening speech delivered by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) or assigned representative

Panel discussion on the origin and importance of the activity: An exchange of visions covering funding agencies, universities, and private sector stakeholders from both Thailand and abroad, led by the Chair of QTRic, Director of PMUC, executives from the Center of Excellence Digitech AI Lab, and Mr. Rick Young representing qBraid

Panel discussion on perspectives in driving technology from the private sector and investors: An exclusive session featuring global and national organizations including IBM, the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and AWS (Amazon Web Services), presenting investment directions in transformative technologies

Inspiration session and Hackathon briefing: In the afternoon, there were ice-breaking activities to introduce participants to one another and summarize outputs from previous year projects presented by Pak Shen Choong, followed by briefing of the Hackathon competition over the next 4 days, focusing on ESG challenges in three main areas: Secure Communication, Efficient Clean Energy, and a special case study on climate change mitigation through wildfire management (Wildfire Solutions), followed by team formation and collaborative planning

In the evening, after completing activities in Bangkok, all participants traveled to Leelawadee Resort, Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, to prepare for field-based activities on the following day

Summary of key speaker content on Day 1

Throughout the first day of lectures, speakers from various organizations demonstrated why quantum technology represents a major technological turning point and an essential infrastructure that Thailand and ASEAN must urgently develop, with key points as follows

True Innovation Center: Quantum AI as a new capability beyond classical computing

Speakers from True Innovation Center emphasized that the world is currently facing limitations of classical computing in solving highly complex problems such as

Computational limitations: molecular protein structure simulation at quantum scale for drug discovery, and climate modeling involving billions of variables, all of which exceed the capability of current supercomputers

Energy and network management: optimization of large-scale renewable energy grids consisting of millions of nodes, and optimization of telecommunications networks

Cybersecurity: future quantum computers will be capable of breaking RSA and ECC encryption systems currently used to protect critical infrastructure, requiring urgent transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

Global investment in quantum technology has reached approximately 38 billion USD in the period 2024–2030, and countries or organizations that begin early will gain structural advantages for decades. The integration of Hybrid Quantum-AI models will significantly enhance computational capability at exponential levels. True Innovation Center has defined four main research directions: Quantum AI & Optimization, Intelligent Infrastructure Systems, Advanced Simulation, and Quantum-Safe Infrastructure

Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET): Market microstructure technology

The application of quantum computing in financial and investment industries, particularly in managing large-scale trading systems involving more than 100 million transactions per year and billions of order book messages, includes

Data computation: using quantum systems to reconstruct and reorganize order books from raw data streams at microsecond-level resolution, addressing bottlenecks that classical systems cannot handle

Fraud detection: applying Quantum Machine Learning techniques such as QSVM, QNN, and QGAN to detect abnormal trading behaviors with higher accuracy and speed, including spoofing or layering strategies, wash trading, and front-running practices, aiming to improve transparency in capital markets

AWS (Amazon Web Services): Quantum Genomics Toolkit for genetic science

Dr. Charlie Lee, representing AWS in the field of genetics, presented advancements and tools during the event

Following previous success in which the Wellcome Sanger Institute successfully encoded and decoded the genetic structure of Hepatitis D virus using IBM’s Heron 156-qubit quantum processor, marking a global milestone

AWS has developed the Quantum Genomics Toolkit, which allows researchers to input raw genetic data files (FASTA files) and convert them directly into quantum circuits for processing via the Amazon Braket cloud platform, supporting integration with leading quantum hardware such as IonQ Forte and Rigetti Cepheus-1

This technology aims to remove limitations in large-scale genomic data processing, human genome sequencing, and simulation of protein–DNA interactions for future precision medicine applications

QTRic and SUT: Positioning Korat as “Siam Quantum Valley” of the future Professor Dr. Worawat Meevasana from the Thailand Quantum Innovation Research Institute presented the long-term roadmap for building Thailand’s quantum ecosystem, which includes startup development, academic research networks, and internationally published scientific outputs, and Thailand is now entering its next phase

There is a long-term project to transform the Khao Yai and Korat region into a destination ecosystem combining science, education, and tourism, supported by infrastructure such as high-speed rail and motorway systems

Precision farming applications: using quantum technology to analyze soil conditions with high precision, simulate fertilizer optimization models, and predict plant disease or pest outbreaks

Clean energy and sustainability: improving efficiency of renewable energy grids, simulating energy storage systems such as batteries to reduce regional energy costs in Nakhon Ratchasima, and attracting green investment

Tourism enhancement: attracting MICE tourism and high-value academic professionals to live and work in the area for extended periods

Next phase of the summit

The first day of this event served as a comprehensive foundation in theory and technology before all participants proceeded to real field engagement at Khao Yai National Park on the following day, in order to collect real-world data for use in Friendly Pitching evaluation based on ESG impact and technological feasibility

Quantum technology, which was once considered purely futuristic, is now being actively developed as a real and tangible economic infrastructure through the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026

Day 2 begins: Field exploration at Khao Yai National Park (May 30, 2026)

The morning of the second day began in the natural environment of Khao Yai National Park, where participants traveled to the Visitor Center of the national park to meet park officials and environmental experts. They received detailed information regarding wildfire situations in the area, challenges in monitoring and prevention, as well as impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, and surrounding communities, which served as a critical case study for the Wildfire Solutions challenge of this year

After that, the delegation continued to Pha Diao Dai viewpoint and participated in a Nature Trail activity, walking through real forest terrain. Participants observed geographical conditions, forest characteristics, and environmental factors related to wildfire occurrences, while exchanging opinions with field officers regarding operational limitations in remote areas, communication challenges, and resource management in emergency situations

After field exploration, a discussion session was organized to analyze wildfire-related pain points in multiple dimensions, including hotspot detection, risk prediction, early warning systems, and coordination between relevant agencies. All of these field insights were later used as foundational data for hackathon ideation development

In the afternoon, participants traveled to the Lam Takhong area for an Ideation and Brainstorming session, which was a crucial stage in transforming field data into innovative ideas. Each team analyzed and designed solutions under three main categories: Secure Communication, Efficient Clean Energy, and Wildfire Solutions, while comparing Quantum and Non-Quantum approaches to evaluate feasibility in each scenario

Another major highlight of the day was a lecture by Dr. Denis, who introduced the BOCS Framework consisting of Brainstorm, Opportunity, Challenge, and Scalability, designed to help participants transform ideas into impactful real-world projects

During the lecture, Dr. Denis also shared inspiration through a quote by Hermann Hesse: “A magic dwells in each beginning, protecting us, telling us how to live.” He also presented the famous words of Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Throughout the afternoon, the atmosphere was filled with knowledge exchange between students, researchers, experts, and industry representatives from multiple countries, generating numerous ideas linking quantum technology with environmental issues, energy systems, and digital security

After completing fieldwork and brainstorming activities for the day, participants returned to their accommodation to continue hackathon work. Each team used field data and BOCS framework analysis to further develop their projects under the three challenge domains: Secure Communication, Efficient Clean Energy, and Wildfire Solutions

The atmosphere in the evening was filled with discussion, internal team role allocation, and feasibility analysis of proposed solutions in terms of technology, ESG impact, and real-world applicability. This was done in preparation for the Friendly Pitching session scheduled for the following night

The activities on the second day therefore represented a major turning point of the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026, shifting from theoretical learning in conference halls to real-world field exposure, interdisciplinary teamwork, and early-stage development of quantum-enabled solutions for sustainability

Day 3: Development and Friendly Pitching (May 31, 2026)

Following intensive field study and data collection at Khao Yai National Park, as well as brainstorming and Hackathon development throughout the second day, participants entered the third day of the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026 on May 31, 2569, which focused on further developing ideas into more concrete and structured projects

The morning began with check-out from accommodation before traveling to Khao Yai Thiang Reservoir to experience natural scenery and learn about the environmental context of the area, which aligned with the core sustainability theme of the project. Participants from various countries exchanged experiences and built relationships in a relaxed natural atmosphere in Nakhon Ratchasima Province

After that, the group visited and supported local community products at Saisuk Shop. Participants purchased local products, including ice cream, which not only supported local businesses but also reflected sustainable development concepts that integrate community-based economies with technological progress

After lunch, participants traveled to Suranaree University of Technology in Nakhon Ratchasima, which served as the main hub for the second half of the program and a key center for quantum technology development in Thailand

Upon arrival, participants entered full Hackathon development mode. Each team consolidated field data, analyzed problems, and refined their project ideas in terms of solution design, technological feasibility, environmental impact assessment, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, as well as preparation for final presentations

Throughout the afternoon, the atmosphere was filled with continuous discussion between team members, mentorship from experts, and iterative improvement of project details, ensuring that each solution could effectively address the assigned problems and potentially be developed into real-world applications

In the evening, participants joined the Friendly Pitching session, which served as the first formal presentation platform. Each team presented their concepts, solutions, and quantum technology applications under the three main challenges: Secure Communication, Efficient Clean Energy, and Wildfire Solutions

The presentation opened opportunities for experts to provide detailed feedback on technological feasibility, project development structure, ESG impact, and communication effectiveness. Each team then used this feedback to refine their work in preparation for the final presentation round

The third day therefore marked another important milestone of the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026, demonstrating the integration of quantum knowledge, real-world field experience, and international collaboration in developing impactful innovation concepts

Day 4: Hybrid Pitching and Conclusion (June 1, 2026)

After intensive project refinement and feedback from the previous day, participants entered the fourth day of the summit, which was the official presentation day of the program

The morning began with a visit to the Synchrotron Light Research Institute (Public Organization), where participants received an overview of the institution’s mission and role in supporting national research and innovation. They also toured laboratories and research equipment utilizing synchrotron radiation for materials science, biology, medicine, and related fields, gaining insight into the importance of scientific infrastructure in driving national innovation systems

After the visit, participants returned to Suranaree University of Technology to prepare for final presentations. Each team refined their project details, reviewed presentation content, and prepared for questions from experts and judges

In the afternoon, the Hybrid Pitching Partnership & Conclusion session was held, serving as the official presentation stage of the summit. Each team presented their innovations developed through field data, Hackathon collaboration, and iterative refinement over the previous days

The presentations were conducted in a hybrid format, with both on-site experts and international partners joining online. Experts provided feedback regarding quantum technology feasibility, real-world application potential, ESG impact, and future scalability, while also exchanging perspectives with participants from multiple disciplines After the session, participants gathered for dinner at Xiew Xiew Restaurant in a relaxed atmosphere, exchanging experiences, building networks, and discussing opportunities for future collaboration

In the evening, participants explored Nakhon Ratchasima city before returning to their accommodation to prepare for the final closing day

The fourth day highlighted the transformation of ideas into structured innovations and the strengthening of international collaboration networks across science and industry

Day 5: Closing day (June 2, 2026)

On the final day of the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026, participants visited the Synchrotron Light Research Institute once again for a deeper understanding of its scientific infrastructure and applications in advanced research fields

They then participated in the Summarize Outcomes session at Suranaree University of Technology, where teams shared experiences, lessons learned, and reflections gained from collaboration with peers, mentors, experts, and industry partners

Participants discussed knowledge gained in quantum technology, real-world environmental problem solving, Hackathon teamwork, interdisciplinary collaboration, communication across cultures, and international networking

The organizers then summarized the overall outcomes of the summit and expressed gratitude to all partners, speakers, mentors, and participants who contributed to the success of the program

After a final shared lunch, participants said their goodbyes and departed for their respective home countries and provinces, carrying back knowledge, experience, and international networks for future development

Although the SEA Quantum Leader Summit 2026 has concluded, the collaborations formed throughout the five days demonstrate the potential of integrating quantum technology, scientific research, industry collaboration, and international cooperation to address environmental, social, and economic challenges. These efforts form a foundational step toward advancing Thailand and Southeast Asia into a sustainable quantum-driven future.