THE MECHANISMS FOR STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE THROUGH BOR WOR POWER AND ETHNIC CULTURAL DIMENSIONS IN THE PRANG KASI COMMUNITY, KANCHANABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed to: 1) Examine the development of the cultural value chain of ethnic groups in Prangka Si community, Kanchanaburi Province; 2) Create mechanisms to strengthen the Prangka Si community through the Baworn (home-temple-school) model; and 3) Propose mechanisms to strengthen the Prangka Si community through the Baworn model. The research employed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach. Data were collected through focus group discussions with 15 key informants who participated in establishing community mobilization mechanisms, as well as in-depth interviews with 15 supporting stakeholders. Research tools included interview guides and activity sets, while the data were analyzed using content analysis. The results revealed that the Prangka Si community possesses rich cultural capital from Karen and Mon ethnic groups, encompassing traditions, ways of life, and local wisdom, such as the Karen Sart Festival, Kuan Khao Thip (sweet rice pudding ceremony), Pook Khaw Mue Duean Gao (September wrist-tying ceremony), Ram Tong (folk dance), and the traditional Thong-Yo dessert. These cultural assets were developed into a value chain in four dimensions: economy, society, education, and environment. In the education dimension, the community established eight learning bases: 1) Ethnic history base, 2) Buddhist arts base, 3) Cultural traditions base, 4) Local herbal medicine base, 5) Ethnic cuisine base, 6) Thong-Yo dessert making base, 7) Bamboo and rattan weaving base, and 8) Beeswax candle molding base. These learning bases integrate religion, culture, and livelihoods. In addition, six Baworn mechanisms emerged: 1) Participation between home, temple, and school, 2) Preservation of ethnic culture, 3) Development of temples as learning centers, 4) Digital media communication, 5) Promotion of well-being, and 6) Promotion of morality and ethics. Implementing these initiatives strengthened the community, resulting in the establishment of the Baworn Committee, the restoration of religious sites, the continuous organization of cultural activities, and the creation of a moral community model that can be sustained, expanded, and replicated.