Hua Hin Municipality has started renovations to the city activity square, known as Pone Kingpetch Public Park, aiming to improve public facilities at the well-known community space.
Named after Thailand’s first world boxing champion, the park serves as both a recreational area and a tribute to Pone Kingpetch’s legacy.
On 30 October, Mr. Jeerawat Phramanee, Permanent Secretary of Hua Hin Municipality and Chairman of the Procurement Inspection Committee, visited the site to oversee progress.
Accompanied by committee members, project supervisors, and managers, Mr. Jeerawat emphasised the importance of preserving the park’s large trees during the renovation. Contractors were instructed to ensure that branches and roots would not interfere with construction work, allowing the trees to remain integral to the park’s environment.
The renovation, overseen by Process Engineer and Consultant Co., Ltd., has a budget of more than 22 million baht and is expected to conclude by mid-July 2025.
Pone Kingpetch, born Mana Seedokbuab on 12 February 1935 in Hua Hin, rose to prominence as Thailand’s first world boxing champion. Known for his powerful jab, he became a national icon when he won the world flyweight title in a match against Pascual Pérez of Argentina at Bangkok’s Lumpini Boxing Stadium.
Attended by King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, this victory solidified Thailand’s place on the international boxing stage. Over the course of his career, Kingpetch became a three-time world champion, inspiring generations of Thai athletes.
After his retirement in 1966 due to health concerns, Kingpetch continued to be celebrated as a national hero.
He passed away on 31 May 1982, at age 47, following a struggle with diabetes and lung disease. In 1992, a statue commemorating him was installed in Hua Hin, created by National Artist Nonthiwat Jantanapalin.
Initially located on Hua Hin beach, the 2.2-metre statue was later moved to its current position at Pone Kingpetch Public Park.
The renovation project aims to revitalise the park while preserving its historical significance.
