On April 24, 2025, the Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan unveiled an ambitious province-wide strategy under the banner “Next Move Prachuap, Prachuap Must Move Forward.” The initiative outlines ten key development areas aimed at advancing economic, environmental, and infrastructural goals across the province’s eight districts.
Governor Sittichai Sawatsaen presented the comprehensive policy during a briefing with provincial representatives from 20 ministries. The strategy covers diverse sectors, from water management and tourism to agriculture and industrial development. Major infrastructure plans include groundwater drilling, reservoir dredging, and improved water distribution to support agriculture and consumption.
Among the highlighted initiatives is the promotion of the Thailand Riviera coastal route, expected to strengthen tourism and stimulate local economies. In addition, the province aims to develop 100 community-based accommodations and support the emerging Wellness Economy at the village level by leveraging cultural and ecological tourism.
Marine conservation also plays a role, with measures such as the removal of abandoned fish traps and the installation of artificial fish habitats. Road development, including the construction of the so-called “fishbone road” linking local routes to Phetkasem Road, is intended to ease traffic and boost regional trade and tourism.
Further plans involve upgrading tourist attractions, promoting agricultural and fishery products, expanding employment in the service sector, and encouraging investment in future-oriented industries like electric vehicles and AI data centers. Logistics improvements are also a priority, with efforts to enhance connections to domestic and border trade networks.
The policy is being monitored through regular meetings, including daily briefings and committee reviews held at the governor’s residence and city hall. Officials say the goal is to bring the province’s identity to the international stage while addressing persistent challenges such as education, road infrastructure, drug issues, and public communication.
Though Governor Sittichai is not originally from Prachuap Khiri Khan, he emphasized his dedication to the province’s development, citing over three decades of administrative experience. Local government agencies, working groups, and citizens are being called upon to play a role in shaping the future of the province.
