Temples and the Preservation of Thainess among the Siamese Community in Kedah, Malaysia
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aims to examine the way of life of the Siamese community in Kedah State, Malaysia, an ethnic group with historical and cultural roots closely connected to Thailand. Particular attention is given to the preservation of Thai identity through the roles of temples and Buddhist monks within the community. Living in a multicultural social environment characterized by differences in religion, language, and culture, the Siamese community faces challenges in maintaining its ethnic identity. Therefore, this study investigates the role of temples in preserving Thai identity among the Siamese community in Kedah.
Methods: This study employed a qualitative research approach using a mixed-methods framework. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. In addition, academic documents, related research studies, travel records, books, online media, and websites concerning the Siamese community in Kedah were reviewed. The collected data were systematically analyzed to examine the role of temples in preserving Thai identity among the Siamese community residing outside Thailand.
Results: The findings reveal that the Siamese in Kedah, referred to in Malay as “Orang Siam,” have maintained a strong sense of Thai identity through language, religion, traditions, and culture. Temples play a central role in this process by functioning not only as religious institutions but also as centers for social, cultural, and educational activities. They provide spiritual support, organize religious activities and merit-making ceremonies during traditional Thai festivals, provide Buddhist teachings, facilitate summer ordination programs, and host important cultural events such as Songkran, Loy Krathong, and Sart Duean Sip. In addition, temples serve as centers for Thai language education through Thai language schools established on temple grounds in collaboration with Buddhist monks, volunteer teachers from Thailand, and local community leaders. Temples also support community development by organizing moral and ethical training for youth, providing assistance during crises such as pandemics and natural disasters, and serving as gathering places for community discussions and activities.
Application of this study: The findings can be applied to strengthen the preservation of Thai identity among ethnic Thai communities living outside Thailand. Temples can be developed as integrated community centers that promote Thai language education, religious practices, traditional festivals, cultural transmission, youth development, and community support. Collaboration among Buddhist monks, local community leaders, Thai educational institutions, and relevant organizations can further enhance the capacity of temples to preserve cultural identity and strengthen community cohesion.
Conclusions: The Siamese community in Kedah has demonstrated the ability to sustain and preserve its Thai identity despite living outside Thailand and within a multicultural environment. Temples serve as important centers that connect religious, social, educational, and cultural activities and play a central role in maintaining Thai language, traditions, values, and cultural practices. The study therefore highlights the significance of temples and Buddhist monks in supporting the continuity of Thai identity among the Siamese community in Kedah.
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