Bundhur Lamsam, also known as Khun Pan, has perfectly concluded his role as a "banker" at the age of 68, transitioning to continue the Nan Sandbox project, aimed at conserving the headwater forests in Nan province. He has been interested in this project for over 4-5 years, focusing on restoring the 28% of forest reserve areas in Nan that have been severely damaged.

On April 8, 2020, Mr. Bundhur spoke with the media via Facebook Live, sharing his insightful vision during these challenging times. He reflected on the past 20 years when Thailand faced a major global economic crisis that severely impacted the Thai economy, during which everyone was trying to find solutions.

I remember that on December 4 each year, during the reign of King Rama IX, he would address the nation at Dusidalai Hall, delivering royal speeches to the people. On one such occasion, I was fortunate enough to attend and hear his words about sufficiency.

He stated, "No matter what you do, if a storm comes, don't let it knock you down. This means don't go to extremes; you must be prepared and cautious." These words have always resonated in my mind.

So, when crises arise—economic downturns, pandemics, natural resource depletion, and social unrest—will these be the storms that lead to Thailand's downfall? The question is, what preparations are we making now?

Twenty years later, the general public has recovered, and the bank has also managed to recover from past damages. However, there are ongoing changes and risks. People seek profits, but due to the bank's solid financial structure, even with economic downturns and reduced profits, I believe the banking system can sustain itself through good planning and reserves.

This pandemic has significantly impacted the economy. I believe commercial banks can still manage, although they may lose some profits. The key now is to observe how long the pandemic will last and whether the increasingly stringent government measures can contain the virus.

Once the pandemic situation ends, we must follow up on how to assist the public to ensure everyone can survive and have livelihoods. This may present a new challenge after the pandemic. Nevertheless, Thailand should not abandon research efforts; even if budgets may be reduced, the country needs to continue research to create new knowledge.

The bank has a vision for developing knowledge, particularly in agriculture. The headwater forests in Nan province present a challenging issue that I am passionate about. The government and private sector must work together to find solutions for the headwater forests in Nan, aiming to provide legal land for the people and impart new knowledge while revitalizing the forest. This represents a new chapter in my life.

As I conclude my 40-year banking career, this marks a significant transition in my life. I believe it is the right time to pass the baton to a new management team that I trust. I am not worried because I believe that everyone who steps in will manage Kasikorn Bank well.

I see Khun Kobkan as a talented individual with diverse perspectives, having experience in both the public and private sectors, and she is recognized for her integrity. As for Khun Kattiya, she has worked with me for many years, is sharp in her management, and is kind-hearted. I believe both of them will excel in their roles.

I am also ready to provide advice to the management team moving forward, but I am not overly concerned. I see this transition during a crisis as a testament to the capabilities of the new management team. I have been contemplating this transition for a long time, preparing to hand over responsibilities to those ready to continue the work. However, I would like to leave a warning for the new management team to adhere to four principles: Do not be reckless - Do not neglect calculations - Do not be careless - Do not step on others' toes.

"If I were to compare the economic crisis of 1997 with the COVID-19 pandemic, I would say that the 1997 crisis was a storm caused by human greed, while the COVID-19 crisis cannot be solely blamed on humanity, but it has significantly impacted people and the economy."

Moving forward, I will embark on a new journey by continuing the Nan Sandbox project for headwater forest conservation, which I see as a highly challenging task involving multiple dimensions. I will not engage in politics but will work collaboratively with the government. I will bring knowledge from my past management experience along with new insights. Over the past 4-5 years, the project's progress has been promising, as we have been able to communicate with local people to enhance their understanding and provide them with new knowledge to help solve problems, ensuring that villagers have jobs and do not encroach on the forest. The bank has also supported the creation of new knowledge by developing IT systems to address livelihood issues, helping customers continue their businesses. The bank will allocate a budget to enhance the IT system's capabilities.

"Bundhur Lamsam" is recognized as a visionary banker known for his leadership in transformation since the 1997 financial crisis. He has continuously revamped organizations and introduced innovations in management, believing that "competition in the business world is constant; if a business cannot innovate to keep pace with the global market, it must concede defeat."

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