A Participatory Process in the Inheritance of Local Ritual of the Kiu Hong Tai Te Procession

Abstract

This article presents a critical analysis of the inheritance of the Kiu Hong Tai Te procession, which is a local ritual of Hokkien Chinese at the Kew Ong Yeah Shrine in Trang province during their vegetarian practice tradition. The recent study found that the Kiu Hong Tai Te procession began in B.E. 2454 and continued until the present time. Trang people believe that the procession will contribute to peace and prosperity in society. As a result, those who participate in the procession will be successful in their life. This explains why all Trang people, regardless of age or profession, are willing to join the procession. They work together and voluntarily put collective efforts to plan and launch this procession. Most importantly, the procession serves as an effective cultural measure to foster friendship and solidarity in Trang society.