Dr. Anusri led the New Opportunity Party team to Samut Sakhon to support candidates in campaigning, assuring that the 100-year-old market along Damnoen Saduak Canal will not be closed. The party aims to revive the old market, highlight cultural tourism, and generate community income.
On 17 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Dr. Anusri Thapsuwan, deputy leader of the New Opportunity Party, together with Mr. Thitirat Pumsaow and Mr. Latchajit Meerak, party list candidates, as well as Mr. Nattapat Julsawat, candidate for MP in District 4 (Ban Phaeo-Krathum Baen), number 3, visited Samut Sakhon Province. They listened to local issues in Ban Phaeo District around the more than 100-year-old old market by Damnoen Saduak Canal and the Kamnan Phe-in Market.
Dr. Anusri revealed that both markets are key trading centers for the community, being unique waterside markets where people can purchase food, consumer goods, and clothing. However, following a fire in 2021, the connected markets were blocked off, preventing residents on both sides of the canal from commuting and trading normally. There is also a proposal to demolish the area to build a concrete road, which has led to ongoing economic downturn in the community. Despite residents’ long-standing complaints to relevant agencies, no concrete solutions have been implemented.
"After hearing from vendors who have traded here for decades, I believe the Damnoen Saduak waterside market should be developed and preserved as a traditional cultural floating market, not demolished. It can serve as a crucial mechanism to revive the economy and provide sustainable income for the people of Ban Phaeo," she said.
They also heard concerns about the low coconut prices, now around only 2 baht per coconut. Mr. Nattapat has continuously studied the issue and proposed using innovative cultivation and processing methods to add value and help farmers sell their products at higher prices. Additionally, there are challenges for elderly groups wanting to sell handicrafts and community products. Dr. Anusri stated she will push for online marketing training to open new income channels for these groups.
Dr. Anusri emphasized that she and the New Opportunity Party are descendants of Samut Sakhon residents, with ancestors and family roots in the area. They are committed to resolving the everyday problems of the people and asked for support for the New Opportunity Party, number 44, and the District 4 candidate, number 3, to enter parliament and drive sustainable development policies for the region.