Mr. Madap Manka, a master boat builder for over 50 years, was the first person to make a model Hua Tong boat. In 2002, the governor of Krabi was looking for a unique souvenir to reflect the identity of Krabi province. He suggested model fishing boats, and made an initial order. Mr. Madap Munka and his son, Sombun began producing the boats that year. Government agencies and UNICEF provided additional training for the group members.