A study of product of Batek designs in Three Southernmost Province of Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this research are as following:  1) To study and collect the information on fabric art products, or being called locally Batek. Batek is the name of the fabric being used in this research. It is the product being made in the three southern border provinces of Thailand. The research was covered from the past to the present period.  2) To develop the product design of Batek in the three southern border provinces of Thailand, and 3) To study the communities’ and consumers’ satisfaction with prototype of Batek. The research operation used a mixed-methods design, in which qualitative data were used to support quantitative findings. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions with the target group, totaling 150 people who were local Thai Muslim communities. The research tools are included the questionnaires and interview the people in the communities and consumers to find out their satisfaction with product prototypes made of Batek. Statistics used including percentages, averages, and standard deviations.

Results of the research were as following:  1) Understanding of the demand and supply of the producers’ and consumers’ in the local communities. The local traders are able to use theses indicators to inspire to design new patterns. Most of the materials are available in the local communities. Batek pattern products are designed and developed in the Thai Muslim villages and combined with local wisdom. The study found out that Batek indicated, showed and emphasized the strong value and outstanding of standards and uniqueness the way of life of Thai Muslim villagers. 2) The result toward the most satisfaction of the product design and patterns of Batek within the Thai Muslim villagers and consumers are Yalor (net), Rue Ko and the ancient city of Yarang, 3) The satisfaction of the villagers and consumers where the products are made ranking from highest to lowest provinces, Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani.