Local businessman Mr Kittipong Siriphetkasem has been elected as the new president of the Hua Hin–Cha-am Tourism Business Association, following a vote held during the association’s annual general meeting on 26 March.
The meeting, which took place at the Hua Hin Grand & Plaza Hotel, was chaired by outgoing president Ms Wasana Srikanchana and attended by nearly 100 representatives from both the public and private sectors. Among the officials in attendance were Hua Hin District Chief Prasoot Hombanthoeng, Acting Hua Hin Mayor Jirawat Phramanee, senior police and tourism officials, and members of the local business community.
The main item on the agenda was the election of a new executive committee and president for the 2025–2026 term. The election involved representatives from eight sectors of the tourism industry, including hotels, golf courses, restaurants, tour operators, entertainment venues, event organisers, spas, and media.
Mr Kittipong Siriphetkasem
Kittipong, 56, who previously served as vice president of the Association, was chosen to succeed Wasana. Known locally as “Tee Lek,” he is the owner of several businesses in Hua Hin, including K.S.C. Auto Parts & Service Huahin, Pae Mai Hua Hin Market, Hua Hin Car Co., Ltd., and a tax renewal service centre for cars and motorcycles.
In addition to his business interests, Kittipong is active in local development initiatives and community welfare. He is the founder and president of “Rao Puean Kan” (We Are Friends), a group that promotes tourism and community engagement in the Hua Hin area.
Speaking after the election, Kittipong thanked association members for their support and said he was committed to driving the city’s tourism industry forward. He outlined plans to expand membership, improve service standards across local businesses, and strengthen the association’s profile to attract more domestic and international visitors.
He also noted the positive outlook for tourism in Hua Hin, with visitor numbers expected to grow in 2025 and average stays likely to increase, helping to support the wider local economy.
Mr Kittipong takes over from Ms Wasana, who held the presidency for eight years. During her tenure, she was credited with strengthening the Association’s relationships with government agencies, federations, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. At the conclusion of her term, she handed over a budget surplus of more than 800,000 baht to support the Association’s work over the next two years.
