GUIDELINES FOR CONSERVATION OF CHAK PHRA TRADITION IN KOH PHANGAN DISTRICT, SURATTHANI PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. To study the historical background of the Chak Phra, Buddha image lifting tradition at Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province; 2. To examine the problems and obstacles in preserving this tradition; and 3. To explore approaches to its conservation. The study was conducted by the qualitative research methodology using in-depth-interviews with 10 key informants, including monks and local stakeholders. The data were analyzed using descriptive interpretation.

The results of the research were as follows: 1. The history of the Chak Phra, Buddha image lifting, tradition at Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province is a Buddhist tradition held on the last day of the Buddhist Lent to worship the Buddha and increase merit. There is a procession of beautifully decorated reclining Buddha boats with Buddha images or Buddha statues, a procession of dances, and music to accompany the ceremony, creating a joyful atmosphere. Organizing the event helps build unity in the community and preserves cultural heritage. 2. Problems and obstacles in the conservation of the Chak Phra tradition found that there was a lack of skilled craftsmen and the transfer of skills, a lack of budget and resources, a lack of support from the government, a lack of interest from the new generation, and a lack of cooperation from the community. In addition, there were obstacles in terms of training, knowledge dissemination, and the inheritance of local wisdom. 3. Guidelines for the conservation of the Chak Phra tradition on Koh Phangan in 3 main areas: 1. Buddhist art, including the restoration of Buddha images and local art objects, the training of artisans, and the promotion of cultural tourism, 2. Community participation, including youth training and the creation of pride in the tradition, 3. The inheritance of local wisdom, including the transfer of knowledge to the youth, the construction of boats, and the dissemination of information via social media.