Buddhist Integration to Develop Infrastructure Management of Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province

Abstract

     The objectives of this study were: 1) to investigate the level of infrastructure management of Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province; 2) to examine the relationship between Iddhipada Dhamma principles and the infrastructure management of Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province; and 3) to propose a Buddhist integration approach for developing infrastructure management of Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province.  This study employed a mixed-methods research approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research. The quantitative research collected data from a sample group of 379 participants, with analysis conducted using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation (SD), and correlation analysis to examine the relationship between the principles of Iddhipada Dhamma and the infrastructure management of Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province. For the qualitative research, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 key informants. Content analysis was combined with contextual analysis, and the findings were presented in a narrative format, supplemented by frequency distribution tables of key informants to support the quantitative data. The research instruments consisted of a questionnaire and an in-depth interview guide focusing on infrastructure management and the Iddhipada Dhamma principles. The reliability coefficient of the research instruments was 0.981.
        The results showed that 1) the overall level of infrastructure management in Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province, was at a moderate level; 2) there was a very high overall correlation between the principles of Iddhipada Dhamma and infrastructure management in the municipality. When analyzed by specific aspects, water management showed a very high correlation, while electricity management, transportation and logistics management, drainage management, sanitation management, safety management, education management, and cultural management all exhibited a high correlation; and 3) the application of Buddhist integration to enhance infrastructure management in Klang Wiang Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Sa District, Nan Province, involves incorporating the principles of Iddhipada Dhamma into infrastructure management development. The findings suggested that Chanda (satisfaction) can be promoted by encouraging public participation, allocating budgets efficiently, providing knowledge and understanding to the public, and developing personnel and equipment appropriately. Viriya (effort and perseverance) requires continuous monitoring of budget requests, increased efforts to secure funding through various methods, and enhanced coordination efficiency. Jitta (determination and commitment) suggests that the municipality should remain committed to its objectives, develop clear plans, continuously monitor and evaluate projects, and establish priorities for each project. Lastly, Vimamsa (reflection and consideration) highlights that the municipality should thoroughly consider budgeting and expenditures, conduct detailed reviews of documentation, and enhance participatory process involving all relevant sectors.