Chiang Mai University joins IBM to boost AI, quantum research in ASEAN
Chiang Mai University has signed a memorandum of understanding with IBM to strengthen artificial intelligence and quantum computing research across Southeast Asia.
Chiang Mai University (CMU) is set to participate in the IBM-National University of Singapore (NUS) Research and Innovation Centre, following an agreement with IBM that also marks the university's entry into the IBM Quantum Network.
Through this collaboration, CMU aims to accelerate the deployment of advanced AI and quantum computing technologies to address national and regional challenges in Thailand and the broader ASEAN region.
The memorandum enables Chiang Mai University to work alongside the National University of Singapore, leveraging IBM's advanced AI infrastructure, including prototype IBM Spyre Accelerators, and gaining access to IBM's fleet of quantum computers through the cloud. These resources will be provided via the IBM Quantum Innovation Centre led by NUS.
According to the details of the agreement, CMU plans to harness AI-centric compute infrastructure and work collaboratively to build Thailand's AI ecosystem. The university will also receive access to IBM's AI technology stack, including software, systems, and accelerators, allowing researchers to efficiently develop and deploy fine-tuned AI models. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to democratise AI across the country with scalable, lower-cost solutions for wider accessibility.
The collaboration is intended to help tackle pressing regional challenges such as climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and public health issues, with a particular emphasis on models that address natural disasters, air pollution, and flooding specific to Thailand.
Regional collaboration
CMU's inclusion in the IBM Quantum Network, through its membership in the NUS-run innovation centre, will also open opportunities for quantum computing research and workforce development. The network provides cloud-based quantum computing resources for hands-on training and the advancement of research initiatives.
Joint MOUs between the institutions outline plans to co-develop research initiatives by leveraging IBM's digital infrastructure, focusing on areas that align with regional needs and institutional strengths. These include opportunities for shared development, sharing of best practices, and exploration of next-generation AI and quantum technologies alongside the integration of both capabilities.
The efforts reflect a wider regional move toward what has been termed "AI sovereignty" and digital resilience. The collaboration between CMU, NUS, and IBM demonstrates how smaller economies can cooperate to achieve autonomy and accountability in emerging technology domains without operating in isolation.
Talent development
As part of the initiative, NUS and CMU plan to establish opportunities for training and skills development in advanced AI and quantum computing. Through research engagements facilitated by the IBM-NUS Research and Innovation Centre and the IBM Quantum Innovation Centre at NUS, students and researchers from CMU will have access to state-of-the-art technologies and international expertise.
Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS, commented on the strategic importance of the partnership. In his words:
NUS is delighted to partner Chiang Mai University and IBM to advance AI and quantum science through open, collaborative research, while developing the talent and resources essential for the region's growth. Working together, we aim to strengthen regional cooperation - including with leading universities in the ASEAN University Network - and translate cutting-edge research into practical, powerful solutions for real-world problems. Sustainability is a key priority for NUS, and a particularly exciting focus of this strategic collaboration will be leveraging foundation models to address challenges from climate change to disaster management. We look forward to working closely with Chiang Mai University and IBM to deliver tangible impact for society and industry across ASEAN.
Professor Pongruk Sribanditmongkol, President of CMU, outlined the potential impact for Thailand:
This proposed collaboration with NUS marks a major leap for Chiang Mai University in elevating our research and innovation capabilities to the global stage. IBM's quantum technology and AI will be important elements of this future development with NUS. These plans as outlined in the MOUs will not only enable our researchers and students to work with experts and access cutting-edge technologies but also establish a solid foundation for Thailand to become a leader in deep technology within the region. We are committed to producing high-quality research and graduates who can drive the nation forward.
Catherine Lian, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM ASEAN, highlighted the objectives of the new relationship:
This proposed relationship between IBM and CMU reflects our commitment to responsible innovation that accelerates progress and empower innovators. By combining world-class research with local talent development, we would be bringing this capability to Thailand through the NUS-CMU partnership, fostering the next breakthroughs in AI-driven and quantum-enabled solutions that would be designed to directly support the region's competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.
The agreements form part of ongoing moves to foster a robust AI and quantum technology ecosystem in Thailand and throughout the region, with an emphasis on applying advanced technology to practical, societal, and industry challenges.
