Cultural Capital Management Strategies through Participatory Approaches: A Guideline to Enhancing the Community Economy in Tha Khanun Subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

This research aims to develop cultural capital management strategies through participatory processes of community, and apply the developed strategies via the 'Talad Nang Yong' street market festival to enhance the local economy, as well as study the economic and social impacts at Tha Khanun Subdistrict. The target group consisted of 48 key informants, including representatives of Mon, Karen, and indigenous Thai ethnic groups; community leaders; youth; cultural entrepreneurs; and local government officers. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, participatory observation form, and focus group discussions form. The findings revealed that 1) Tha Khanun Subdistrict has strong and diverse cultural capital across four dimensions: traditional rituals, local cuisine, indigenous products, and folk arts and performances; 2) applying the strategies in the 'Talad Nang Yong' street market festival help revitalizing cultural capital, promoted creative product development, and fostered immersive cultural tourism activities that consistently attracted visitors; and 3) the strategies led to a 25% increase in average household income, enhanced community solidarity, empowered youth in cultural transmission, and promoted systematic management of public spaces. In conclusion, cultural capital management strategies through participatory approaches is a crucial mechanism for enhancing economy and fostering social sustainability of multicultural communities Concretely.