The Process of Sustainable Development of the Rak Santisuk Community Enterprise by Buddhist Peaceful Means

Abstract

The objectives of this research are as follows; 1. to analyze the problems, context, needs, and theoretical concepts related to the sustainable development of community enterprises. 2. to examine Buddhist peaceful principles that contribute to the sustainable development of community enterprises. 3. to develop and present a sustainable development model for community enterprises by Buddhist peaceful means, focusing on a case study of the Swai Subdistrict, Prang Ku District, Sisaket Province. This research was conducted based on the framework of the Noble Truth Model using the 9-step ladder approach of the Peace Studies Program of the Graduate School, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University.

The research results were found that: 1. Problems in Communication among Personnel: The issues identified include, 1) economic and social challenges that hinder self-sufficiency, 2) low and unsustainable income levels, 3) lack of knowledge and understanding in marketing and brand building, 4) unprofessional management and teamwork, and 5) insufficient online communication for product awareness. 2. Buddhist Peaceful Means Supporting the Sustainable Development of Community Enterprises: The study identifies seven principles of non-decline (Aparihaniyadhamma) that contribute to sustainability: 1) frequent meetings and gatherings, 2) unity in starting and ending meetings, as well as in activities, 3) adherence to established agreements and refraining from introducing unnecessary changes, 4) mutual respect and honor, 5) respect for women, 6) respect for what deserves respect, including rules and regulations, and 7) maintaining and building upon existing positive practices. The evaluation of these practices includes physical, behavioral, mental, and intellectual dimensions through the application of the Four Bases of Success (Iddhipada). 3. Steps for Sustainable Development of Community Enterprises by Buddhist Peaceful Means: The case study in the Swai Subdistrict, Prang Ku District, Sisaket Province, identifies a six-step development process: 1) forming a group, 2) strengthening management, 3) networking, 4) expanding markets, 5) effective public relations, and 6) leading the community enterprise toward sustainability. The development focuses on six key areas: personnel development, group management, financial and accounting management, production development, marketing development, and communication and public relations development.