Elevating Community's Quality of Life and Income from Local Wisdom: A Case Study of Mueang Phai Subdistrict Wickerwork Group, Sakaew Province

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the quality of life and income of the grassroots community in Mueang Phai sub-district by utilizing community participation as a key approach, in addition to promoting local wisdom in basket weaving to develop various community products and generate employment and income. The study sample consisted of residents and community leaders in Mueang Phai sub-district, Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. Data collection methods included field surveys, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, content analysis and descriptive mapping.             The results showed that the Mueang Phai community faced problems such as lack of water sources for agriculture, insufficient produce and the need for secondary employment. However, they had potential in the traditional art of weaving. Activities were organized to revive and promote product design using bamboo strips, which were abundant in the area, as the main material for wickerwork. These were further developed into various products such as baskets, containers and lamps. The community also jointly designed a group brand and acquired skills in management, online and offline marketing. Then the Mueang Phai Wickerwork Occupation Group was founded.The members of the group were able to increase their income by an average of 10, improve their mental health, increase their social participation and expand their activities in the community. To strengthen the group, group management training was conducted based on the philosophy of sufficiency economy. This approach emphasized moderation, reason and prudence based on knowledge and virtue. It also focused on strengthening resilience in order to be prepared for change. The study shows how the use of local resources and wisdom, combined with community participation and capacity building, can lead to sustainable economic development and improved quality of life in rural communities.