Malai Khao Tok : Crafting Sacred Wisdom for the Buddha toward Enhancing Creative Economic Value through Community Participation in Fa Yad Subdistrict, Maha Chana Chai District, Yasothon Province DOI:

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: 1) to study the principle of Ditthadhammikattha-prayojana (virtues conducive to benefits in the present) in Buddhist scriptures towards the creation of Malai Khao Tok (popped rice garland) handicrafts in the Pha Yat Subdistrict community, Maha Chana Chai District, Yasothon Province; 2) to develop Pha Yat Malai Khao Tok products to add creative economic value through a community participation process; and 3) to evaluate the results of enhancing Malai Khao Tok towards adding creative economic value through community participation in Pha Yat Subdistrict. The study employed a participatory qualitative research methodology. Data were collected via in-depth interviews and action research with: 1) local leaders, 2) local scholars (village sages), 3) monks, and 4) the Ban Pha Yat Malai Khao Tok group. The research findings revealed the following: The application of Ditthadhammikattha-prayojana served as a key conceptual framework, consisting of Utthanasampada (achievement of diligence), Arakkhasampada (achievement of protection), Kalyanamittata (good friendship), and Samajivita (balanced livelihood). These principles align with the context of career creation and the development of Malai Khao Tok handicrafts by promoting diligence, the conservation and transmission of local wisdom, and moderate living. Consequently, the community was able to develop careers based on morality alongside the conservation of local cultural values. The development of Fa Yat puffed rice garland products to enhance creative economic value, through a participatory process of the Fa Yat Subdistrict community, Maha Chana Chai District, Yasothon Province, was carried out effectively. The community was involved in all stages, including analyzing potential based on cultural capital and local wisdom, designing and developing diverse products while preserving their identity, improving product quality and production standards, designing packaging and product storytelling, as well as developing marketing channels and creative communication. Continuous evaluation and improvement were also undertaken. As a result, the products gained added value in both aesthetic and economic aspects, generating income, strengthening the community, and contributing to sustainable development. The overall evaluation reflected positive changes at the individual, group, and community levels regarding product, economic, social, and learning aspects. The development of handicrafts based on Buddhist Dharma and local wisdom can create economic, social, and spiritual value simultaneously, serving as a significant guideline for driving the creative economy of the Pha Yat community towards strength and sustainability.