Chonburi: Sophon Saram, President of the Parliament and Speaker of the House of Representatives, motivated council executives and staff to embrace teamwork by being like 'rice stalks bending down' rather than 'elephants raising their trunks.' During the seminar titled 'Policy Management to Operational Implementation in Support of the Role and Responsibilities of the Secretariat of the House of Representatives' held at the Wyndham Jomtien Pattaya Hotel, Saram emphasized a family-like atmosphere and the Four Noble Truths as essential elements for organizational progress.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Naris Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi Province, welcomed Sophon and the executive team, highlighting Chonburi's significance in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) due to its strengths in industry, tourism, trade, commerce, and transportation. The seminar aimed to foster discussions among political and administrative staff, encouraging them to adjust their thinking and attitudes to collaboratively advance the council's mission.
Mr. Sophon urged participants to practice humility and modesty, using the analogy of 'rice stalks bowing down' to stress the importance of using knowledge and abilities for the organization's benefit, rather than self-elevation. Drawing on Buddhist scriptures, he underlined that successful work necessitates teamwork and cooperation, akin to the Pancavaggiya and the three Jataka brothers, and cannot rely on a singular effort.
The Speaker of Parliament further elaborated on the Four Noble Truths (Iddhipada 4) as pillars of organizational success, namely Chanda (commitment), Viriya (perseverance), Citta (focus), and Vimamsa (reflection). He emphasized the need for a family-like organization that thrives on care, support, and collaborative problem-solving, advocating for practical outcomes over formal work practices.
Dr. Chatchimuk Apinanchotisakul, Director of Educational Strategy and Business Development at Panyapiwat Technological College, also contributed to the seminar with a lecture on 'Principles of Management for Concrete Success.' He recommended restructuring large government agencies into more agile units, reducing monopolies, and promoting competition through outsourcing. His focus was on increasing efficiency through flexible organizational structures under the 'doing more with fewer resources' philosophy.
Additionally, a team-building activity led by Dr. Siriwat Manowattana and his team fostered a warm environment where participants enhanced their teamwork and communication skills. The activity emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and collaboration, crucial for creating unity within the organization.