InCIT 2026

Abstract

The global energy sector is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by decarbonization, decentralization, and digitalization. Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including renewable energy systems and smart grids, are increasingly interconnected through digital infrastructures. However, this transformation also introduces significant challenges in cybersecurity, interoperability, and governance of distributed systems.

This keynote presentation discusses the architecture and security framework of Energy Resource Aggregation Business (ERAB), which enables the coordination and management of distributed energy resources in smart energy ecosystems. The talk highlights the role of international standards such as ISO/IEC 14543-4-3 (ECHONET Lite) in enabling secure communication between smart meters, home energy management systems, and energy service platforms.

The presentation will also explore the development of cybersecurity frameworks for smart grid infrastructures and distributed energy systems, as well as the collaboration between government agencies, industry organizations, and international standardization bodies in building secure and sustainable digital energy systems.

Biography

Prof. Masaki Umejima is a Project Professor at the Keio University Global Research Institute (KGRI), Japan. His research focuses on cybersecurity for distributed energy systems, digital infrastructure architecture, and entrepreneurial education in digital societies.

He has been actively involved in international standardization initiatives related to smart energy systems. Prof. Umejima currently serves as the Convener for the Energy Resource Aggregation Business (ERAB) initiative under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) System Committee on Smart Energy.

His research has contributed to the global adoption of the ISO/IEC 14543-4-3 (ECHONET Lite) communication protocol, which is widely used in smart meters and distributed energy resources. This protocol has been implemented in more than 100 million devices worldwide to support energy management systems and smart grid applications.

Prof. Umejima also serves as an advisor to the Japanese government on ICT education and digital platform strategies, contributing to national initiatives related to digital transformation and cybersecurity in education systems.

Abstract

The advancement of digital communication technologies has enabled new forms of international collaboration in education, research, and knowledge exchange. Universities and research institutions are increasingly connected through global academic networks that support open science, collaborative research, and digital learning environments.

This keynote discusses the development of Internet-based education and international academic collaboration networks in the Asia-Pacific region. The presentation highlights the role of digital infrastructure in enabling global citizenship education, resilient societies, and cross-border knowledge sharing.

The talk will present case studies from the SOI Asia initiative, a regional academic network that connects universities across multiple countries to support collaborative learning and research activities. The keynote will also explore how digital platforms can enhance education accessibility, promote global partnerships, and strengthen resilience in education systems.

Biography

Prof. Keiko Okawa is an Advanced Research Project Professor at the Cyber Civilization Research Center, Keio University Global Research Institute (KGRI), Japan, and Emerita Professor of Keio University.

Her research focuses on Internet-based education, digital learning environments, and global academic collaboration. She has played a key role in developing international education networks and collaborative research initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region.

Prof. Okawa serves as the Director of SOI Asia, a university collaboration network connecting more than twenty universities in thirteen countries to support digital education and collaborative research. She has also served as Director of the Research Institute for Digital Media and Content at Keio University.

Her contributions to digital education and international collaboration have been recognized through several awards, including the Ganesa Wirya Jasa Adiutama Award from Institut Teknologi Bandung and the Keio Award. Her research interests include digital humanities, open science, and ICT for resilient societies.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence technologies are rapidly transforming industries, digital services, and organizational operations. While AI provides significant opportunities for innovation and efficiency, it also introduces challenges related to governance, transparency, data protection, and cybersecurity.

This keynote presentation discusses governance frameworks and regulatory mechanisms that support responsible AI deployment. The talk highlights the importance of data protection compliance, cybersecurity assurance, and digital trust frameworks in ensuring the safe and ethical implementation of AI systems.

The presentation will also explore the role of ESG governance, digital certification standards, and organizational risk management in supporting sustainable digital transformation in the intelligent economy.

Biography

Dr. Thanyanan Kengwantrakul is a leading expert in artificial intelligence governance, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. She is the President and Founder of the Accredited Certification Body (CB) at ISEM Co., Ltd., an organization accredited under the ASEAN University Network (AUN) framework.

She holds leadership positions in several national professional organizations, including Vice President of the Artificial Intelligence Entrepreneur Association of Thailand (AIAT), Vice President of the Data Protection Officer Association (DPOA), and Vice President of the Thai EdTech Association.

Dr. Kengwantrakul has extensive experience in corporate governance and executive management, having served in roles such as Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Audit Committee, Chairman of the Risk Management Committee, Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Information Officer (CIO) in public companies.

Her professional expertise includes AI governance, cybersecurity auditing, ESG compliance, digital risk management, and international certification standards.