Life stories from a central bank chief, a group founder, a fashion icon and more

Happy 2025! Asia appears set for another turbulent year as geopolitical tensions rise and leadership changes sweep the region. Key figures in business and politics are likely to face many challenges as they navigate the road ahead.
 
In times of such uncertainty, the stories of influential individuals can offer valuable insights. Our long-running My Personal History series gives voice to a variety of trailblazers who have written or dictated their life stories for publication.
 
Our list of notable personalities includes, most recently, Henry Kravis, co-founder of U.S. investment fund KKR, and former Bank of Japan Gov. Haruhiko Kuroda. Other names include Japanese fashion icon Yohji Yamamoto, Boonsithi Chokwatana, chairman of Thai consumer products giant Saha Group, and Mochtar Riady, founder of Indonesia's Lippo Group.
 
Check out all of the editions here. The first installments are free to read and can be found below.
 
You can also read our interviews with newsmakers from around the world here.

MY PERSONAL HISTORYThe 80-year journey of an industrialist: Henry Kravis (1)

With my cousin George Roberts as a close companion

Pursuing the national interest: Haruhiko Kuroda (1)

Former BOJ governor reflects on 56 years in public service

Shattering authorities, prejudices and customs: Yohji Yamamoto (1)

Wandering through a wilderness -- anger and a father's regret

The story of Thailand's Saha Group and its chairman (1)

Boonsithi Chokwatana recalls lessons he learned from YKK founder in 1956

The story of Lippo Group and modern Indonesia: Mochtar Riady's story (1)

The group's founder and chairman shares his history in this exclusive series

Dhanin Chearavanont (1): The Thai company with Chinese roots and a global vision

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