Analysis of Community Potential to Promote Community-Based Tourism in Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the tourism potential of community tourism in Maha Sarakham Province by studying the four components of community-based tourism: 1) natural resources and culture 2) community organization 3) management 4) learning. The goal is to gather information on the potential of each aspect of the community and to utilize this information to promote and develop community-based tourism management. The research is conducted using qualitative methods, focusing on the areas of Ban Nong Hin, Ban Dong Noi, and Ban Hua Khua, which are OTOP innovative tourism communities in Maha Sarakham Province. The data collection tools include semi-structured interviews, with key informants being community leaders or individuals involved in tourism management within the community, with 10 people from each community, totaling 30 individuals, selected through purposive sampling. The data is analyzed using descriptive analysis methods.

The study found that 1) in terms of natural resources and culture, Ban Nong Hin has resources such as Nong Hin, Nong Ku, Don Pu Ta, and the Stupa of Luang Pu Phearn. Ban Dong Noi includes Don Pu Ta, Ku Santrath, and Phra That Na Dun. Ban Hua Khua features the Kae Dam wooden bridge, Nong Kae Dam reservoir, and Wat Dao Duang. All three communities still adhere to the traditions of the heet 12 and kong 14. 2) Regarding community organizations, all three communities have diverse occupational groups, generating income from collective sales of goods and services. There are local scholars in the communities, which positively impacts community-based tourism development. 3) In terms of management, each community has established regulations as customary practices for community members and guidelines for tourists. Additionally, there is a structure for a tourism management committee within the community, which divides tasks, responsibilities, and management duties collaboratively, resulting in effective tourism management within the community. 4) In terms of learning, all three communities have learning activities that reflect their way of life. The organization of activities through learning promotes skills for occupational groups, local food culture, and showcases community traditions and customs, all of which foster learning for visiting tourists.