(The Capacity Building of Tai Song Dam Ethnic Community in Chumphon Province)

Abstract

          For decades, Tai Song Dam ethnic group in Southern Thailand has integrated their traditional beliefs and Buddhism doctrine to use in daily life. Community has considered as a blending area that occurred the integration for generations. This paper aims to investigate belief-based capacity buildingof Tai Song Dum ethnic community in Chumphon province. Qualitative methodological approach is used to conduct the study. Observation, life-history approach, in-depth interview, and group interview are used as research tool to collect field data.

          The results found that Tai Song Dam ethnic communities at the villages of Don Ruab, Kor Tia, and Bang Long in Muang district, Chumphon province have a strong community empowerment. Tai Song Dam ethic people play a crucial part to participate in community activity. For instance, building the temple, establishing Me Mor Sane community, Establishing the learning center of Tai Song Dam ethnics, worshiping community sacred items, and empowering Tai Song Dam identity. Buddhism temples in community are used to conduct activities, and empower Tai Song Dam identity to other social spaces. This reflects that religious institution is a crucial space for Tai Song Dum people to create their identity, and empower themselves in the present.