THE PROMOTION OF HONEST LIVELIHOOD IN CREATING “SAEN DUANG” LANTERNS AS A COMMUNITY IDENTITY FOR THE ELDERLY IN MUANG DISTRICT, LAMPHUN PROVINCE

Abstract

The research project titled was conducted with three primary objectives: (1) to investigate the body of knowledge and the crafting process of Khom Saen Duang lanterns among the elderly in the local community; (2) to develop processes for promoting sufficiency livelihoods for elderly residents in Mueang Lamphun Municipality; and (3) to transfer knowledge and establish a network of elder artisans for sustainable livelihood development. This research employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating documentary research, quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and participatory action research.

          The research findings are summarized as follows

              1.A survey of 282 residents across 17 communities in Mueang Lamphun Municipality revealed that the majority of Khom Saen Duang artisans are elderly women who acquired their skills through intergenerational household learning. Community members expressed a positive attitude toward the craftsmanship and production processes, emphasizing the value of meticulous work, cultural pride, and active participation in local traditions. Recommendations include promoting design skills, supporting raw material accessibility, and transferring knowledge to younger generations. The lanterns thus represent not only a form of cultural faith and Lanna identity but also a sustainable livelihood initiative.

              2.The crafting of Khom Saen Duang lanterns by the elderly exemplifies a sufficiency livelihood grounded in Buddhist principles—centered on honest work, the use of local wisdom and natural materials, and non-competitive collaboration. Skill-development programs in branding and online marketing have been introduced to enhance income generation, foster spiritual value, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainability in economic, social, environmental, and spiritual dimensions.

          3.The knowledge transfer and network-building activities included two key initiatives. The project focused on empowering the elderly through lantern-making by emphasizing: (3) intergenerational knowledge transmission via participatory workshops, and (2) the formation of a sufficiency livelihood network in collaboration with stakeholders. Online media was also employed to support creative economy development through professionalization of local craftsmanship