Cultural Presentation and Community Participation Process in Mon Cultural Heritage Management: A Case Study of Saladaeng Nuea Community Chiang Rak Noi Subdistrict, Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to investigate; 1) Presentation of Mon culture in all dimensions, i.e. moral, material, legal and social under the participation of Thai Mon community at Saladaeng Nuea Temple, 2) The model of Mon culture management with participation of Wat Sala Daeng Nuea community under the concept of New Public Governance. The research is qualitative research. Data collection was primary data by interviews with multi-stakeholder groups ranging from government, community and private sectors, along with secondary data from relevant documents and research. Data were analyzed through content analysis and descriptive analysis.
The major findings revealed as follows:
1. Presentation of culture has been classified into 4 dimensions, namely Morality presented through prayers, doctrine according to Buddhism. Material Culture through the architecture of pagodas, houses, utensils, Mon food, Mon language, and dress. Rule of law through 12 months of customs, regulations and traditions, including beliefs. Social Culture through practicing oneself in cultural traditions, how to dress for important events and the principle of adhering to gratitude.
2. Participatory Mon cultural management process model through New Public Management. The government has an active role in the conservation of Mon through cooperation from many sectors including the public sector and Mon people of Saladaeng Nuea community have joined in pushing for the expression of Mon identity through participation in various rituals and dressing and the university provides knowledge and transfers the knowledge of the Mon people in other areas to the community.