For the 2026 election, Jitphat and Dr. Ae campaigned in Hua Hin, promoting it as a model tourist city to attract retired foreign visitors to stimulate the economy, focusing on uniqueness and safety.
On 23 Jan, reporters noted a lively atmosphere as the 2026 general election campaign for MPs entered its final phase. Last evening at the Hua Hin night market in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Jitphat Tan Kridakorn, a party-list candidate and leader of the Thai Khao Mai Party, along with Suchatvee Suwansawat, the party’s prime ministerial candidate and leader, and other MP candidates, canvassed support. They received a warm response from locals and tourists alike.
After campaigning, Jitphat said that Hua Hin district in Prachuap Khiri Khan province already has a tourism base and rich cultural heritage. She wants to promote it as a model city for tourism business, inviting local people—especially retirees—and foreigners to help circulate money in Hua Hin’s economy. Although Hua Hin is relatively slow-paced and cannot compete with Chonburi or Phuket provinces, the goal is to develop Hua Hin’s unique identity and make it an attractive destination for both Thai and foreign tourists.
She observed that Hua Hin tends to attract older tourists, mainly retired foreigners who choose to retire there. The party’s policy aims to present Hua Hin as a model city for tourism that invites retired foreigners to visit Thailand. This approach seeks to attract quality visitors who will contribute financially to Hua Hin’s economy.
When asked how to encourage Thai people to travel domestically, since most visitors at the Hua Hin market were foreign tourists, Jitphat said it might be difficult because Hua Hin cannot compete with Chonburi or Phuket. However, Hua Hin emphasizes culture and has a distinctive character unlike other places. As Thai Khao Mai Party, they intend to highlight Hua Hin’s uniqueness to attract tourists. Additionally, Hua Hin must be prepared to handle increasing visitor numbers, including addressing crime and safety issues. The party plans to use technology and AI to enhance security for both locals and tourists. Attracting tourists depends on their confidence that Hua Hin is safe and enjoyable. The party may also promote other districts to attract retired Thai and foreign visitors.
When asked about ensuring safety for tourists and residents in Hua Hin, Jitphat expressed sorrow over recent news incidents. She urged the government, security agencies, and local authorities to manage these issues. However, the party’s top priority is human capital development through education. If everyone receives proper education and support from the start, they are less likely to become homeless or engage in crime later in life.