Meet the Team
Behind ASRA is a passionate team of individuals united by a shared commitment to sharks, rays, and the communities and ecosystems connected to them. Get to know the people helping shape this alliance across the region.
Muhammad ichsan
Muhammad Ichsan is an Indonesian shark and ray researcher whose work spans shark and ray fisheries, threatened species conservation, social dimensions of fisheries, and regional collaboration. He is a PhD student at the University of the Sunshine Coast and has been part of ASRA since its development phase, including helping lead the 2024 interest survey that shaped the alliance’s early priorities..
President
Dr Maizah M. Abdullah
Dr Maizah M. Abdullah is an academic at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu with expertise in marine ecology and a strong commitment to capacity building. Her work and public statements emphasize training, mentorship, and supporting early-career researchers, making her a key voice in ASRA’s regional mission.
Vice President
Dr Andrew Chin is a scientist at James Cook University’s Fish & Fisheries Lab with decades of experience in fisheries, shark and ray conservation, bycatch reduction, and regional capacity building. He has worked extensively across the Indo-Pacific and brings deep experience in collaborative, policy-relevant conservation to ASRA.
Vice PresidentDr Andrew Chin
Mina Hatayama is a PhD candidate and research associate at James Cook University whose work focuses on shark conservation, climate-change impacts on marine species, and socio-ecological systems. Through ASRA, she helps coordinate communications and supports efforts to build a stronger, more connected shark and ray research community across Asia.
Secretary Mina Hatayama
Kiesha Lara Venga is a marine biology graduate from James Cook University and a research associate in the Fish & Fisheries Lab. Her experience includes developing outreach materials for river shark and ray work in Indonesia, and she has also led student shark-conservation initiatives, bringing strong organizational and communications skills to ASRA.
TreasurerKiesha Lara Venga
Zainab Saria is a marine biologist from Mumbai, India, whose curiosity about the Arabian Sea led her to study marine biology at James Cook University and pursue shark research. Her work focuses on behaviour, movement ecology, and fisheries science, while her outreach uses art and communication to connect marine science with the public.
Social Media CoordinatorZainab Saria
Titus Cañete is a Filipino marine biologist focused on shark research, deep-sea conservation, and expanding access to ocean technology. Through his work with LAMAVE, he leads deep-sea shark research and conservation initiatives in the Philippines and contributes a strong perspective on local capacity building and emerging deepwater research in Asia.
Communications & Website Coordinator