SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY POLICY FOR INTERTEGRATED BUDDHIST COMMUNITIES DEVELOPMENT OF KHANOM POWER PLANT NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) Analyze the body of knowledge on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the context of Buddhist-integrated community development of the Khanom Power Plant, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province; 2) Propose CSR policies for Buddhist-integrated community development; and 3) Establish a CSR network to promote Buddhist-integrated community development. The study employed a mixed methods research design, with quantitative research as the primary approach, supported by qualitative research and action research. Data were collected from 395 survey respondents, 24 key informants, 30 workshop participants, and 9 experts involved in focus group discussions. Research instruments included questionnaires, interview guides, tests, observation forms, and focus group protocols. Descriptive statistics were employed for quantitative data analysis. The findings revealed that: 1) The synthesized body of knowledge on CSR for Buddhist-integrated community development of the Khanom Power Plant consists of five key dimensions: trust-based community governance, promotion of health and environmental well-being, enhancement of community quality of life, support for education, religion, and cultural heritage, and the creation of CSR networks for Buddhist-integrated community development. Overall, the perceptions of the sample group toward the level of CSR were rated high ( = 4.33, S.D. = 0.66). 2) CSR policies can fully integrate Buddhist principles across all five dimensions. 3) The CSR network for Buddhist-integrated community development was established through a model of CSR policy transfer to the community via employees, government and private sector leaders, occupational development groups, and social media platforms. This initiative anchors the concept of a “Buddhist-based business organization,” reinforcing the sustainable strength of the Khanom Power Plant, and culminated in the development of the COMMITS Model.