Development of Community Capital Potential for Creative Tourism in Mae La Noi District, Mae Hong Son Province

Abstract

This study aims to (1) assess the level of community capital potential for the development of creative tourism and (2) analyze the factors influencing the enhancement of community capital capacity to strengthen communities’ ability to sustainably support creative tourism. A mixed-methods approach was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 395 respondents, determined using Yamane’s formula and selected through accidental sampling. In addition, 15 key informants were purposively selected for the qualitative component. The research instruments included a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation as well as inferential statistics. Qualitative data was examined through content analysis, categorization, interpretation, and thematic synthesis to systematically explain the spatial context.

The findings reveal that (1) the overall level of community capital potential is high, with cultural and natural capital exhibiting the greatest strength, reflecting a resource base conducive to the development of creative tourism. Human and social capital serve as the primary driving mechanisms for development, whereas physical and financial capital remain significant constraints, particularly in terms of infrastructure and access to funding. (2) The factors influencing the enhancement of community capital potential demonstrate an integrated relationship across all six dimensions of capital. Community participation and government support function as critical systemic enablers that reinforce this integration. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by demonstrating that the sustainable development of creative tourism requires a systematic integration of community capital. Human capital acts as the core driver, social capital operates as a connective mechanism, and cultural and natural capital form the foundational base for value creation in both economic and identity dimensions. This integrated framework ultimately facilitates the strengthening of grassroots economies and the long-term resilience of communities.