CSR Project

"Krungthai Loves Phetchaburi" is a project in which Krungthai Bank has actively participated in the development of Phetchaburi Province, a target area where the bank, in collaboration with UNDP and partner organizations, is promoting biodiversity conservation by restoring balance to mangrove forests and strengthening community resilience for sustainable coexistence with nature. This effort helps communities adapt to climate change. This project started in Pak Thale Subdistrict, which is known for its vast salt farming area. Each year, it welcomes large flocks of migratory birds escaping the harsh winter from eastern Russia.

Pak Thale has therefore become a key area for preserving the ecosystem for migratory and local birds, while also encouraging ecotourism. The salt fields have been developed as habitats for a wide variety of bird species. A highlight is the spoon-billed sandpiper, a critically endangered migratory bird with only about 400 individuals remaining worldwide. Each year, they migrate to Thailand during the winter, attracting numerous birdwatchers to the area.

To support this, the Pak Thale Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) and community leaders established Pak Thale Ecological Information Center, with support from Krungthai Bank, UNDP, BIOFIN, Raks Thai Foundation, and the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand. The center serves as a learning space for mangrove and salt field ecosystems, raising awareness among locals and tourists about the importance of biodiversity while preserving the traditional way of life and culture of Pak Thale community.

Krungthai Bank recognizes the significance of promoting ecotourism in collaboration with Pak Thale SAO. The bank also expands its efforts into Bang Tabun SAO and Laem Phak Bia SAO, including promoting local group enterprises, creating jobs using local mangrove resources, and supporting the establishment of community waste banks for waste management, environmental preservation, and occupational health. The bank also delivers financial literacy programs to help community members build financial awareness and protect themselves from financial risks and fraud.

The project has also expanded into Tham Rong Community, in Tham Rong Subdistrict, Phetchaburi Province—a learning center for the toddy palm way of life. Here, visitors can explore the local culture as well as traditions, and discover how every part of the toddy palm is utilized—from root to crown. The community transforms these resources into creative works such as handicrafts, palm-leaf weaving, and palm-based cuisine like Kaeng Hua Nod, Kaeng Lok, palm cake, and toddy palm syrup. Tham Rong Community is one of the most palm-connected communities, rooted in generations of palm orchard farmers. According to local legend, during a royal visit to the area, a village woman presented the ruler with a bowl of water containing a floating blade of grass. In return, he gave her a ring (thamrong). The village was then called “Ban Thamrong,” eventually becoming “Tham Rong” as it is today. Local attractions include Wat Tham Rong, with its ordination hall featuring exquisite stucco reliefs crafted by local artisans of Phetchaburi, and Tham Rong Cave, which houses the ancient and sacred Buddha image Luang Pho Dam.

The “Krungthai Loves Phetchaburi” project reflects Krungthai Bank’s mission to be a true partner to Thai communities—balancing nature conservation, local economic development, and improved quality of life for the people. It aims to empower communities to grow sustainably and face future challenges with strength. The bank is committed to expanding this initiative nationwide to build an environmentally friendly Thailand with strong, resilient communities.

Crispy Shrimp with Royal Flavors (Spicy Crispy Shrimp Salad): Vermicelli-wrapped shrimp, deep-fried and topped with three-flavored herbal salad dressing. Includes local herbs like coriander, dill, mint, shallots, crispy shallots, and fried chili—perfect as a light appetizer.

Floral Mieng of Phetchaburi (Mackerel Lotus Wrap): Lotus petals serve as edible wraps filled with fragrant fried mackerel, thin lemon slices, toasted coconut, crispy rice, fresh chili, shallots, and tender palm heart. Topped with aromatic shrimp paste dressing.

Grilled Fish of the Palace’s Reflection (Grilled Tilapia with Kaeng Lok Sauce) : Large tilapia marinated in Kaeng Lok curry paste, wrapped in palm leaves over spinach, then grilled. Served with fried young banana for natural sweetness.

Palm Delight (Sticky Rice with Young Palm Custard) : A fusion of traditional sticky rice dessert and Western custard presentation.

Chilled Beneath the Cliffs (Phetchaburi Ancient Ice Cream) : Traditional-style ice cream infused with local flavors such as Thai custard, toddy palm juice with coconut milk, blue pea with young palm, and roselle with young palm. Extremely refreshing.

Palm Breeze of the Phet Fields (Fresh Palm Sugar Virgin Mojito) : Fresh palm sugar mixed with the globally popular Mojito mocktail. Muddled mint and lime blended with toddy palm juice, ice, and soda water for a fizzy, fragrant drink.