Kanitha Krishnasamy welcomed as Chair of ASAP’s Governing Council

June 2026

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Kanitha Krishnasamy as the new Chair of the ASAP Governing Council. 

Kanitha brings extensive experience in conservation policy and wildlife trade through her role as Director of TRAFFIC in Southeast Asia, where she leads a complex programme tackling illegal trade in threatened species. She has been on the ASAP Governing Council since 2017 and has been the Deputy Chair since 2023. 

Kanitha takes up the new role from Simon Stuart, who served as Chair since 2016.  

Kanitha shared: 

“Having spent a career on protecting Southeast Asia’s incredible biodiversity during one of the most critical periods in our planet’s history, I know that lasting conservation depends on empowering those closest to the challenge. What makes ASAP extraordinary is that it’s not just about saving species, but about backing the remarkable people and organisations making that possible every day. The commitment to local leadership is what makes ASAP a truly one-of-a-kind partnership. I am honoured and thrilled to become the Chair at such an exciting time of growth for ASAP.”

Nerissa Chao, Director, ASAP, said: 

“We are delighted to welcome Kanitha as Chair of the Governing Council. She has been an integral part of ASAP for some time, most recently serving as Deputy Chair. Her expertise will be invaluable as our programmes and impact continue to grow – and we couldn’t be more excited to see her lead in this new role. 

“I would also like to take this moment to express our deep gratitude to Simon Stuart, whose vision and commitment have been instrumental in shaping ASAP into the organisation it is today.” 

We warmly welcome Kanitha and thank Simon for his longstanding leadership and significant contribution as Chair for the last ten years.