Contemporary Identity: The Existence of the Karen Ethnic Community of Ban Kluay, Dan Chang District, Suphanburi Province

Abstract

            This research article aims to Study 1) To explore the identity of the Karen ethnic group in the Ban Kluay community, Wang Yao sub-district, Dan Chang district, Suphan Buri province; 2) To study their contemporary existence within a multicultural society; and 3) To present the model for coexistence within this multicultural context. The study was conducted in Wang Yao sub-district, Dan Chang district, Suphan Buri province, with 30 key informants. The primary research tools included a survey on community identity and cultural capital, as well as specific focus group discussions. The collected data was then analyzed, and the findings and recommendations were presented in a descriptive narrative. The research results were found as follows:- The research revealed that the Karen ethnic community of Ban Kluay maintained a way of life and existence based on their inherited culture and traditions, which constituted the community's distinctive identity. Community members demonstrated strong cooperation. The community area, with its suitable topography and a flowing stream, was deemed developable into a cultural tourism destination. Community members, leaders, monks, local sages, local administrative officers, and the tourism club participated in setting guidelines for developing the community's cultural products, such as traditional attire, performances, and music, through community tourism activities. The Karen ethnic community developed a plan to establish community accommodation by converting homes into clean, convenient, and safe lodgings for visitors. These accommodations were intended to retain their natural ambiance and fully reflect the cultural way of life of the Karen people, ready to welcome tourists through a process led by community leaders. This initiative aimed to strengthen and promote sustainable cultural adaptation and co-existence.