On Oct. 14, 2026, a group of government officials, industry representatives and academics working on #UnderseaCableResilience and capacity building visited the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies as participants in the State Department’s @StateIVLP . Cohort members hailed from #Australia, #Fiji, #Palau, #Papua New Guinea, the #Philippines, #SolomonIslands, #SouthKorea, #Taiwan, #TimorLeste and #Vanuatu. In addition to briefings from DKI APCSS faculty on the geopolitical, economic, legal and technological aspects of submarine cables, visitors engaged in discussions on ways to advance international cooperation, strengthen maritime security and enhance maritime domain awareness. Undersea cables represent a vital lifeline for economies and alliances, carrying more than 98% of international data traffic. As #CriticalInfrastructure, these cables present both strategic vulnerabilities and opportunities for regional nations. As DKI APCSS prepares for a workshop next year focused on strengthening national resilience through subsea cables, the discussion helped highlight regional concerns and priorities that the center aims to address. The visit also enabled stakeholders and regional experts to expand a network of security practitioners dedicated to undersea cable resilience.

Securing Campus Resilience: DKI APCSS Announces Division Chief for Infrastructure and Services The Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies announces the appointment of Cmdr. Jake Baker, US Navy (ret.) as our new Division Chief for Infrastructure and Services. The Division Chief directs the modernization, maintenance, and security of Center real property, information technology architectures, cybersecurity frameworks, travel planning, and mission-essential physical facilities at Fort DeRussy in Honolulu. In an era demanding robust digital capabilities and hardened physical spaces, this portfolio ensures Center infrastructure remains resilient, secure, and state-of-the-art. Key leadership responsibilities include: •Facility resilience, environmental sustainability, and lifecycle physical plant maintenance. •High-assurance enterprise IT systems and secure telecommunications connecting global security alumni. •Physical security protocols safeguarding high-level international delegations and visiting defense ministers. DKI APCSS extends a formal welcome to our new Division Chief for Infrastructure and Services. Review leadership biographies: dkiapcss.edu/leadership/

The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) welcomed DKI APCSS Director Suzy Vares-Lum and members of the Center team for a meeting with Secretary General Tan Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, an alumnus of the Advanced Security Cooperation Course 11-2. The Secretary General reflected on his enriching experience at DKI APCSS and highlighted the remarkable number of Center alumni who have risen to senior levels within the MFA, including ambassadors serving in key posts around the globe. Their shared Center fellowship—and the distinctive golden lanyard—reflects the enduring strength of the DKI APCSS alumni network. The meeting also highlighted continuing opportunities to strengthen the Malaysian MFA–DKI APCSS partnership by bringing more emerging leaders to the Center and supporting regional security and prosperity. @MalaysiaMFA

We were honored to welcome Valérie Brisset, Consul General of France in San Francisco to the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS) in Honolulu, Hawaii, Oct. 20, 2026. Consul General Brisset and her team engaged in a discussion with DKI APCSS Deputy Director Russ Bailey, Dean James Minnich, and Center faculty exploring France’s engagement in the #IndoPacific, regional security dynamics, #maritimesecurity, and disaster resilience, as well as opportunities for greater cooperation between #France, the United States, and Pacific partners. @FranceinSF

While in #Malaysia, the team from DKI APCSS visited the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS), where they met with Shahriman Lockman, Director for Special Projects, who attended attended several workshops at the Center. Director Suzy Vares-Lum discussed areas of mutual collaboration and the opportunities presented by the Center for their distinguished security professionals at future courses. @ISIS_MY

A team from DKI APCSS led by Director Suzy Vares-Lum traveled to Kuala Lumpur to meet with #Malaysian government officials, partner organizations, and reconnect with our vast alumni network. At the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MiDAS), where nearly 60% of their officers are DKI APCSS alumni, they met with Chief Executive, Vice Admiral Datuk Yusne bin Hj Mokhtar, an alumni of the Transnational Security Cooperation (TSC) course 26-1. He highlighted that his staff return from DKI APCSS with confidence and a broader regional perspective. They agreed to explore future opportunities for structured institutional engagement benefiting both countries and the wider #IndoPacific theater. @MiDAS_Malaysia

It was a privilege to host RADM Jason Tama, incoming US Coast Guard Deputy Commander, @USCGPACAREA and the outgoing Deputy Commander, RADM Jeffrey Novak, (DKI APCSS Alumni/TSC 25-2) at the Center for a discussion on pertinent regional challenges and areas for continued cooperation and collaboration. The Coast Guard is a key partner for a safe and secure #IndoPacific and the discussions highlighted the Service’s enduring commitment to the region.

DKI APCSS is pleased to announce the appointment of Wade Turvold as our new Center Operations Division Chief. From symposium logistics to resident executive programs, Center Operations provides the mission-critical supportfor DKI APCSS. Details: dkiapcss.edu/leadership/ #MissionSupport #Operations

DKI APCSS Alumni Muhamad Al Fikri, a technical policy analyst with Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance, shares how his Fellows Project helped advance his work to strengthen cybersecurity in Indonesia. He also reflects on the meaning of earning the DKI APCSS Laulima Lanyard—a distinction that represents commitment, collaboration, and pride in the Center’s global alumni network. Watch his story: youtu.be/BzKFMnnNfmM #DKIAPCSS #FellowsProject #Cybersecurity #Indonesia #Laulima #SecurityCooperation

We’re pleased to announce Dr. Lori Forman as DKI APCSS’ new Strategy, Programs, and Outreach Division Chief. Leading long-range planning, institutional innovation, and alignment with national defense strategy to foster a free, open, and resilient #IndoPacific. Learn more: dkiapcss.edu/leadership/ #DKIAPCSS #StrategicVision #IndoPacificPolicy

⚓ 251 YEARS OF UNWAVERING VIGILANCE, UNMATCHED LETHALITY Today, we join the nation in celebrating the 251st Birthday of the United States Navy! Since its founding on October 13, 1775, America’s Sailors have stood the watch, safeguarding global commerce, defending freedom, and keeping the seas open and secure. 🌊✈️ In the Indo-Pacific and across the globe, the U.S. Navy operates with unwavering vigilance and unmatched lethality alongside our allies and partners to ensure a free, open, and resilient maritime domain. 🤝🚢 To all active-duty, reserve, veteran, and civilian Sailors—and especially those at DKI APCSS and our alumni—thank you for your dedication, service, and sacrifice. Fair winds and following seas! 🌬️⛵ #Navy251 #UnwaveringVigilance #UnmatchedLethality #IndoPacificSecurity # #USNavy #AnchorsAweigh #NavyBirthday

Muhamad Al Fikri, a technical policy analyst with Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance, reflects on the value of the Comprehensive Security Studies Course (CSC 26-3) and his experience as a Fellow at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. Fikri also shares how recently serving as a seminar leader expanded his perspective on security, leadership, and collaboration across the Indo-Pacific. Watch his story: youtu.be/lTgBR25a1rQ #DKIAPCSS #CSC263 #SecurityCooperation #IndoPacific #Leadership

Last week, DKI APCSS Director Suzy Vares-Lum proudly awarded the prestigious Laulima Lanyard, the Center's highest alumni award, to U.S. Army Col. Ryan Case for the successful completion and implementation of his Fellow Project, the 'Japan-U.S. Security Discussion'. This inaugural event, developed in conjunction with Sasakawa USA, demonstrated how a single, well-executed initiative can successfully bridge institutional boundaries, elevate bilateral security dialogues, and inspire the next generation of strategic leaders to think bigger. Kudos Col. Case! #LaulimaLanyard #Fellowprojects #AlliesAndPartners @USArmy

We were honored to host a delegation from the Australian War College's Australian Command and Staff Course (ACSC) field application research visit on Monday. This engagement brought together mid-career Australian Defence Force and Australian Public Servants with our faculty to discuss regional security dynamics, joint operational planning, and the impact of emerging technologies on modern warfare. @acsc_j #FriendsAlliesPartners #SecurityCooperation

We are pleased to announce the appointment of retired Ambassador Marc Knapper Distinguished Adjunct at DKI APCSS. Amb. Knapper brings extensive expertise in #SoutheastAsia and #NortheastAsia to our institution. Aloha @MarcKnapper!

Senior leadership from the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS) concluded a high-level visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK) this month, engaging diplomatic counterparts, defense officials, and industry leaders to advance Indo-Pacific stability and defense industrial resilience. It was also an occasion which allowed for DKI APCSS faculty and staff to reconnect with alumni and stakeholders to strengthen the bonds between allies and partners. Learn more here: ow.ly/noRg50ZU6aC

Two ships. Two states. Two extraordinary legacies of service. What a powerful sight—the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) transiting alongside USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118). There is special meaning behind this image. Senators Ted Stevens of Alaska and Daniel K. Inouye of Hawai‘i were decorated World War II veterans, longtime Senate colleagues, and close friends who referred to one another as brothers. They worked together for decades in service to our nation and shared a deep commitment to national defense and the Pacific. Now, ships bearing their names sail together—carrying forward their legacies of service, friendship, and commitment to our nation and the Indo-Pacific. We at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies and the Ted Stevens Arctic Center are proud Department of War Institutions named after these two servant leaders. What a fitting tribute to two warriors – two friends—and two great Americans. @APCSS @Stevens_Center #USNavy @AmericasNavy #DanielKInouye #TedStevens #IndoPacific #DKIAPCSS #TSC

Two ships. Two states. Two extraordinary legacies of service. What a powerful sight—the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) transiting alongside USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118). There is special meaning behind this image. Senators Ted Stevens of Alaska and Daniel K. Inouye of Hawai‘i were decorated World War II veterans, longtime Senate colleagues, and close friends who referred to one another as brothers. They worked together for decades in service to our nation and shared a deep commitment to national defense and the Pacific. Now, ships bearing their names sail together—carrying forward their legacies of service, friendship, and commitment to our nation and the Indo-Pacific. We at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies and the Ted Stevens Arctic Center are proud Department of War Institutions named after these two servant leaders. What a fitting tribute to two warriors – two friends—and two great Americans. @APCSS @Stevens_Center #USNavy #DanielKInouye #TedStevens #IndoPacific #DKIAPCSS #TSC

How does DKI APCSS connect security leaders across the Indo-Pacific? 🌏 Capt. Yukiko “Yuki” Bito (JMSDF) reflects on her time at the Comprehensive Security Course 26-3 and the power of regional collaboration. 🎥 Watch now: youtu.be/IudlIfBz3gM #IndoPacific #SecurityCooperation #MaritimeSecurity