LAI LOOK KEAW: PARTICIPATORY INTERDISCIPLINARY PROCESS FROM THE CULTURAL RESOURCE BASE TO DEVELOP THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE ELDERLY IN THE KHUAN KHANUN COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE GROUP KHAO CHAI SON DISTRICT, PHATTHALUNG PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to study the cultural resource base of Khao Chaison District, Phatthalung Province, to collaboratively design an interdisciplinary process that generates a positive social and economic impact on the elderly members of the Khuan Khanun Community Enterprise Group. Conducted as field-based Participatory Action Research (PAR), the study leveraged 1) The traditional performance art of Nora as the core strategic asset, recognizing its “Unfair Advantage.” This is due to its legendary origin at Wat Khian Bang Kaeo, its recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021, and its profound regional spiritual significance, all of which secured exceptional cooperation from the community as Cultural Capital. 2) The project implemented an interdisciplinary process by restructuring the Community Enterprise.
A sub-network, the 'Lai Look Keao,' was established to specialize in cultural product creation using Nora beads. Organizational management was integrated across the value chain in collaboration with academic and professional partners. The process included three main stages: Upstream: Studying cultural identity and establishing a raw material cost account ('Bead Bank'). Midstream: Designing product management procedures, creating prototypes, and compiling detailed financial records. Downstream: Identifying markets for the new cultural products. and 3) This resource-based, participatory interdisciplinary intervention successfully transformed the target elderly group's social status from low-income, vulnerable members to income-generating local wisdom masters. The minimum per-household income is projected to increase by a significant 50 to 100 percent compared to baseline levels prior to the project's implementation.