The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) successfully convened its Foundation Committee Meeting No. 1/2569 on Thursday, 26 March 2026, at 9:30 hrs. at the APCD Administrative Building, Bangkok, Thailand.

The meeting served as an important platform to present and review the progress of the APCD Foundation’s work, while also setting strategic directions and guiding policy implementation in alignment with its core mission to promote the rights, empowerment, and improved quality of life of persons with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region. It reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive development and strengthened collaboration among key stakeholders to ensure that its initiatives remain responsive to evolving regional needs.

The following Foundation Committee members attended the meeting:

1. Dr. Tej Bunnag, President, APCD Foundation Committee / Secretary-General, The Thai Red Cross Society
2. Mr. Sribhumi Sukhanetr, Vice-President, APCD Foundation Committee / Honorary Consul of Monaco / Dean of the Honorary Consular Corps of Thailand
3. Dr. Poonpit Amatyakul, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / Secretary and Committee Member, Ratchasuda Foundation
4. Ms. Sonthaya Boonyaphusit, Director-General, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), representing Mr. Kantapong Rangsesawang, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security
5. Prof. Nareewan Chintakanond, Member, APCD Foundation Committee
6. Ms. Varabhorn Leekulnimit, Vice President, Corporate Sustainability Department, representing Mr. Chai Chaiyawan, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / President, Thai Life Assurance Public Company Limited
7. Dr. Prachuab Vanitchatchavan, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / Academic Lecturer, Faculty of Business Administration (KMITL Business School), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology, Ladkrabang (KMITL)
8. Prof. Dr. Nantarika Chansue, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / President, Earth Agenda Foundation
9. Dr. Somkiat Siriruttanapruk, Member, APCD Foundation Committee / Director, Bureau of Occupational and Environmental Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health
10. Mr. Suporntum Mongkolsawadi, Secretary-General, Redemptorist Foundation for People with Disabilities / Member, APCD Executive Board
11. Mr. Piroon Laismit, Secretary and Committee Member, APCD Foundation / Executive Director

Furthermore, the meeting provided an opportunity for Committee members and relevant stakeholders to exchange perspectives, share insights, and propose innovative approaches for organizational development. It facilitated collective decision-making on key strategic, programmatic, and partnership priorities, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in APCD’s operations.

Through these collaborative efforts, the Foundation continues to strengthen its capacity to deliver meaningful and sustainable impact, while advancing an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can equally access opportunities and fully participate in all aspects of life.

APCD staff shared working experience and roles in international conferences to Empower PWDs. through a live online broadcast organized by OK Mass: Media Volunteer for PWDs on 20 March 2026, Bangkok.

เจ้าหน้าที่ ศพอ. แบ่งปันประสบการณ์การทำงานและบทบาทในการเข้าร่วมการประชุมระดับนานาชาติ เพื่อเสริมพลังแก่คนพิการ ผ่านการถ่ายทอดสดออนไลน์ โดยสื่ออาสาเพื่อคนพิการ เมื่อวันที่ 20 มีนาคม 2569

On 20 March 2026, Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat, Logistics Officer at the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), was invited to join in a live online broadcast organized by OK Mass Co., Ltd., which produces the program “Online Assistance Center: Citizen Media Volunteers” under the segment “Media Volunteers for Persons with Disabilities.” The program is financially supported by the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Fund under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.

During the program, Ms. Siriporn introduced her roles and responsibilities at work and shared how persons with disabilities can play key roles in international conferences, drawing from her successful work experiences to empower other persons with disabilities. The program was broadcast live via Facebook on the page “Citizen Media Volunteers.”

The program aims to serve as an online platform for disseminating information and publicizing projects related to persons with disabilities, as well as functioning as a communication channel for coordination, receiving cases, and promptly connecting individuals in need with nearby persons or responsible agencies for immediate assistance.

The live broadcast contributed to raising public awareness and promoting disability-inclusive initiatives.

APCD joined Dao Ruang Group's field visit on 21–22 March 2026 in Phetchaburi Province.
ศพอ. เข้าร่วมกิจกรรมทัศนศึกษาของกลุ่มดาวเรือง กลุ่มผู้พิทักษ์สิทธิ์พิการทางสติปัญญา เมื่อวันที่ 21-22 มีนาคม 2569 ที่จังหวัดเพชรบุรี

Thirteen members of Dao Ruang in Thailand's pioneering self-advocacy group for persons with intellectual disabilities and their families united for a transformative weekend in Phetchaburi, proving that true inclusion drives measurable community impact. Supported by APCD since 2009, the group get on their annual capacity-building retreat from 21–22 March 2026.

Participants led beach trips & community contribution, practicing vocational skills through cookie-baking and souvenir craft workshops, while reinforcing their distinctive "Triangle Collaboration" partnership model. The initiative showcased self-advocacy in action: members directed planning discussions, coordinated beach cleanup logistics, and facilitated evening cultural exchanges. Beyond environmentally friendly, the gathering challenged societal misconceptions about disability leadership while cultivating sustainable livelihood capabilities.

Dao Ruang continues redefining inclusion not as assistance, but as shared power demonstrating that when individuals with disabilities steer the agenda, civic participation and community service flourish naturally.

Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Presents Donation to Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability Foundation (APCD / ศพอ.) to Support Persons with Disabilities

In a ceremony held at 10:30 AM on 19 March 2026, the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage made a generous charitable contribution to the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) Foundation to advance disability development activities across the region.

Bangkok, Thailand — The Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage (RAAT), one of Thailand's sports associations, officially presented a charitable donation to the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) Foundation on the morning of Wednesday, 19 March 2026, at 10:30 AM.

The donation ceremony was graced by senior leadership from RAAT, led by the Association's distinguished representatives who conveyed the organization’s commitment to social responsibility and inclusive development for persons with disabilities in Thailand and the Asia-Pacific region.

REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ROYAL AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION OF THAILAND

1. Mr. Pruettirat Rattanakul Sereeroengrit

     President, Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage (RAAT)

2. Mr. Vichate Tantiwanich

     2nd Vice President, Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage (RAAT)

CHARITABLE DONATION — RAAT to APCD Foundation (ศพอ.)

Donation Amount: 236,500 Baht (Two Hundred Thirty-Six Thousand Five Hundred Baht)

Designated for disability development activities

The funds donated will be channelled directly toward APCD's ongoing programmes to empower persons with disabilities, including capacity-building initiatives, vocational training, and inclusive community development activities across the Asia-Pacific region.

APCD expressed sincere gratitude to the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage for its generous support and philanthropic spirit. This contribution reaffirms the vital role that civil society and sporting associations play in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

APCD extends its heartfelt appreciation for this opportunity and for the generosity of the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage.

Group photo of meeting participants, included staff from The Nippon Foundation (TNF) and APCD and research team.

Dr. Theeraphong Bualar, survey team leader from Burapha University presented the findings and recommendations at APCD office.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, APCD Chief of Networking & Collaboration, deliver congratulations remarks.    

The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) successfully organized an online Post-Survey Presentation for The Nippon Foundation (TNF) staff on 19 March 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM (Bangkok time). The session shared the results of the "Survey on University Professors and Lecturers Specializing in Disability Issues in the ASEAN 2025 Implementing Project," bringing together APCD representatives and the research team to present insights, reflect on findings, and discuss future directions for disability-inclusive development in higher education across the ASEAN region. The project was fully supported by TNF.

The meeting began with APCD’s introduction and project overview by Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, APCD Community Development Department Manager. Eight participants from TNF were guided through the purpose and scope of the survey, including its objectives, methodology, and the demographic profile of participating universities and academic professionals, providing a comprehensive context for the research.  A key highlight was the presentation of the survey methodologies and main findings & recommendation by Dr. Theeraphong Bualar, survey team leader from Burapha University following the key point of application “ASEAN Fellowship for Advancing Disability Inclusive Policy Project”.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing TNF staff to engage directly with the presenters, share feedback, and discuss potential next steps. The discussion emphasized the importance of ongoing partnerships, evidence-based policymaking, and continued investment in inclusive education systems.

Group Photo of Civil Society of diverse group of participants.

Mr. Chayoot Homdee, shared and exchange his personal experiences during the workshop.

Mr. Chayoot Homdee, played game in group how to handle discrimination case.

A seminar on the direction of legislation against discrimination against individuals. Included: Mr. Somdech Poonampao, Director of Legal Affairs. Ms. Supatra Nakapiw, National Human Rights Commission. Ms. Jarunee Siripan, Director of Foundation for Action and Inclusion Rights and MovED. Mr. Tirayuth Kaewsing, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Rights Protection.

A group photo was taken at the closing ceremony, with 50 participants, including organizers and participants.

On Tuesday to Thursday, 10-12 March 2026, MovED on Tour Joining Forces to Move Anti-Discrimination Laws Forward (Regional Level: Bangkok) at online meeting 9:00 – 10:40 Bangkok time.

MovED Eliminate - Discrimination is a network of civil society organizations, government agencies, and private sectors working with specific groups such as persons with disabilities, people living with HIV, informal workers, migrant workers, riders, LGBTQIA+, sex workers, ethnic groups, drug users, safe abortion groups, and academics, as well as individuals affected by discrimination. Our goal is to create a Thai society free from discrimination through four strategies: pushing for the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, creating public communication, developing networks, and building research databases on discrimination.

This 3 days event were about doing workshop boardgame from basic information through role practice, then last day through eliminate discrimination law enforcement how it can deliver to parliament.
Objectives of the Workshop is to promote an understanding of discrimination and enable participants to connect discrimination issues to daily life, including their status as members of specific population groups. Be able to disseminate knowledge regarding the intent, mechanisms, and benefits of laws aimed at eliminating discrimination against individuals. And build a civil society coalition to support the advancement of legislation and join MovED network.

More than 50 participants from multiple civil society organizations joined this event.

Group Photo of Participants from OPDs.

Mr. Chayoot Homdee, took lesson learn of Health Service Barriers.

WHO, presented health service accessibility.

On Monday, 9 March 2026, The Regional Webinar on Advancing Health Equity of Persons with Disabilities for the Southeast Asia Region (SEARO) at online meeting 9:00 – 10:40 Bangkok time.

The webinar aimed to support Member States to reform health systems, so they do not discriminate based on disability, and that persons with disabilities receive the same quality and range of health services as others.

In line with this, the International Disability Alliance (IDA) together with the World Health Organization (WHO), organized a regional webinar series targeting IDA members in the six WHO regions, namely Africa Region (AFRO), Western Pacific Region (WPRO), Southeast Asia Region (SEARO), European Region (EURO), Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO), Region of the Americas (AMRO/PAHO)

To ensure meaningful engagement of IDA members, IDA proposes to jointly hold the regional webinars with its regional members in respective WHO regions, including the ASEAN Disability Forum (ADF) in Southeast Asia Region (SEARO).

The overall objective of the regional webinars is to enhance OPDs capacity to understand and advocate on health equity for persons with disabilities.

Around 33 participants included OPDs representative joined webinar learn and health services in terms of accessibility, friendly services, insurances and protection to persons with disabilities.

Bangkok, 17 March 2026 – The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) successfully held its Executive Board Meeting on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, at 9.30 hours at the APCD Administrative Building, Bangkok. The meeting brought together distinguished leaders from government, civil society, international organizations, and the disability rights community to review progress and chart the strategic direction of APCD's work across the Asia-Pacific region.

The meeting was presided over by Dr. Tej Bunnag, Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society and President of the APCD Foundation, in his capacity as Chairman of the APCD Executive Board.

The following Executive Board members attended the meeting:

1. Dr. Tej Bunnag – Secretary-General, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok / President, APCD Foundation and Chairman, APCD Executive Board
2. Dr. Damrong Reinprayoon – Chairperson, Foundation for the Planned Parenthood of Thailand (FPT) / Member, APCD Executive Board
3. Prof. Dr. Nantarika Chansue – President, Earth Agenda Foundation, Bangkok / Member, APCD Foundation Committee and Executive Board
4. Ms. Sunee Srisangatrakullert, Deputy Permanent Secretary, representing Mr. Kantapong Rangsesawang – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Bangkok / Member, APCD Foundation Committee and Executive Board
5. Mrs. Haruthai Sirisinudomkit, Expert, DEP, representing Ms. Sontaya Bunyapusit – Director-General, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Bangkok / Member, APCD Foundation Committee and Executive Board
6. Mr. Chulvat Narinthrangura – Director-General, Thailand International Cooperation Agency, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangkok / Member, APCD Executive Board
7. Prof. Wiriya Namsiriphongphan – Honorary President, Universal Foundation for Persons with Disabilities, Bangkok / Member, APCD Foundation Committee and Executive Board
8. Mr. Shunsuke Sakudo – Chief Representative, JICA Thailand Office, Bangkok / Member, APCD Executive Board
9. Ms. Saowalak Thongkuay – Member, Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD); Chairperson, ASEAN Disability Forum (ADF) / Member, APCD Executive Board
10. Dr. Suporntum Mongkolsawadi – Secretary-General, Redemptorist Foundation for People with Disabilities / Member, APCD Executive Board
11. Mr. Taisuke Miyamoto, representing Mr. Lee Young Seok – Regional Chairperson, Disabled Peoples' International Asia-Pacific / Member, APCD Executive Board
12. Mr. Piroon Laismit – Executive Director, Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability Foundation (APCD Foundation) / Member and Secretary, APCD Foundation Committee and Executive Board

During the meeting, board members reviewed APCD's ongoing programmes, organizational updates, and initiatives aimed at promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities throughout the Asia-Pacific region, in alignment with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Executive Director, Mr. Piroon Laismit, presented progress reports on APCD's regional capacity-building programmes, partnerships, and upcoming activities, underscoring APCD's continued commitment to fostering a disability-inclusive and barrier-free society in the Asia-Pacific.

The APCD Executive Board plays a vital governance role in guiding the strategic priorities of the organization. APCD, established in Bangkok with the support of the Japanese Government and the Royal Thai Government, serves as a regional hub for promoting disability-inclusive development and the empowerment of persons with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.

Bangkok, 11 March 2026 — The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) proudly hosted the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Vocational Training Program for Persons with Disabilities in the Food and Hospitality Business on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, from 13:00 to 13:30 hours at the APCD Training Center, Bangkok.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone in APCD's ongoing mission to promote inclusive employment and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Thailand's thriving food and service industries.

The event opened with a welcome address by Mr. Piroon Laisamit, Executive Director of APCD, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who have supported this meaningful initiative. The formal opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Sontaya Boonphoosit, Director-General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), underscoring the Thai government's commitment to advancing disability-inclusive employment.

This program is generously supported by the Disability Fund, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), reflecting the government's strong dedication to creating sustainable employment pathways for persons with disabilities in Thailand.

A highlight of the ceremony was the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing between the Hilton Hotels Group and the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), formalizing a collaborative partnership to promote inclusive hospitality employment and training opportunities for persons with disabilities across the region. This landmark agreement reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to building a more equitable, accessible, and inclusive hospitality sector.

Bangkok, 9 March 2026 — The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) conducted a workshop on "Basic Understanding of Colleagues with Disabilities" for staff of Central Pattana PCL (CPN) on 9 March 2026. The training welcomed participants both in the classroom and via online platform, reflecting CPN's commitment to building an inclusive and equitable workplace.

The workshop aimed to strengthen awareness and practical skills among CPN staff, empowering them to interact respectfully and effectively with colleagues and customers with disabilities in their day-to-day work environment.

The training was facilitated by a team of experienced APCD resource persons, all of whom bring lived experience of disability to their work. The team comprised Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, a person with Autism; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjitipun, a person with a physical disability; Mr. Sunthorn Uchareon, a person with a visual disability; Mr. Panomkorn Prasitsuparoth, resource person; and Ms. Sirinan Kongcharoen, resource person assistant.

In-class participants included Miss Jitsupa Prachantasena (Food Park Service Partner), Mrs. Jiraporn Yingbamrung (Food Server), Miss Nanthikan Nilthong (Food Server, Hug Thai), Mr. Sukapat Kongphejchr (People Development Specialist), Miss Supattaree Mongkol (Food Park Service Partner, Hug Thai), Miss Ampawan Sasthong (Manager, People Communication and Branding), Miss Kanyarak Chuypitaks (Manager, Food Park), Miss Apaporn Phouthongsa (Manager, Office and Retail Operation, The 9th Tower), Mr. Phaiboon Cherykinput (Team Leader, Food Park), and Miss Kunjira Posinsomwong (HR Intern). Additional staff participated online.

Key topics covered during the workshop included the "Ask Me First" principle, which promotes respectful and empowering service; an overview of various disability types; practical communication and assistance techniques; simulated workplace scenarios; and safety and inclusion protocols.

The session concluded with an open discussion and experience-sharing among participants, reinforcing the importance of creating a truly inclusive, barrier-free, and dignified workplace for all.

This workshop is part of APCD's long-standing collaboration with Thailand's private sector, working to promote inclusive employment, equal opportunities, and disability-friendly workplaces across the region.