The young leading man Ken Phupoom deserves all the encouragement right now. Ken Phupoom Pongpanupak After his famous bakery "Ken Phu Pang" branch in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province was severely flooded and completely destroyed, requiring a full cleanup and replacement of everything, Ken attended the 4th "Aum Aum" market opening at Future Park Rangsit, B Floor. Reporters updated him on the situation.
When asked about the flood disaster at his Hat Yai store, what is the current status?
"We are currently in the process of cleaning up the store because everything was destroyed. The flood went beyond the first floor, damaging the ceiling, electrical systems—everything is ruined. Honestly, the damage is 100%. We couldn't move anything out in time."
Can you describe the event? When did you realize the flood was beyond control?
"Initially, when the first flood news came, I posted on Instagram that the water was only ankle-deep. The next day, the water receded, so we cleaned the store and prepared to reopen. We heard it likely wouldn't flood again. But after cleaning, that night the water rose again, and we couldn't access the store anymore. The flood rose and receded within a day. We cleaned to reopen the next day, but that night the water returned, and it was too late to get items out."
Have you visited the store since then?
"Not yet. I plan to go around mid-month."
Is there anything salvageable?
"Nothing. Everything is ruined. I think we have to replace everything."
Have any organizations offered assistance yet?
"Not yet."
Have you estimated the damage costs yet?
"Honestly, I haven't calculated because I don't want to see the numbers. I just know everything is completely destroyed. If I listed the numbers, it would be overwhelming, so for now I just say everything is ruined. I haven't counted actual figures yet, and I don't really want to see them."
When do you expect the business to recover?
"We are working on recovery. We might reopen the store, but probably not at 100% capacity yet. It will be gradual. I hoped to reopen before the New Year, but it won't be fully operational. Maybe we can start by selling some egg pastries. I'll check the city mid-month as friends there have sent photos showing extensive damage. The staff there are exhausted, very busy cleaning. Many things are inconvenient, roads are blocked, and water trucks can't get through certain areas."
Is this your first time experiencing such an event?
"Yes, it's the first time and it was severe."
How will you prepare if it happens again?
"If it happens again, I think we can move things out in time because we’ve learned to read the water levels. We might redesign the store with more movable furniture. The store theme might include photos of the flood to tell the story, so visitors can understand how severe it was—it's a real part of history."
Are you giving up, since some others have closed their businesses?
"I still want to continue. That place is Ken Phu Pang, and I want people visiting Hat Yai to come to Ken Phu Pang there."
How long do you think it will take to fully recover?
"I think it will take a long time because everything is devastated. It might take a year, based on how I feel, as many businesses have been affected."
Any words of encouragement for other flood victims?
"I send my support to all flood victims. Since the news first broke, I’ve tried to help spread awareness because many friends asked me to share news due to how severe and fast it happened. I encourage everyone to stay strong and hope better days are ahead for all."
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