COMMUNITY CAPITAL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURAL TOURISM: A CASE STUDY OF LAO WIANG WEAVING IN BAN NOEN KHARM, CHAINAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This documentary research examines community capital for the development of cultural tourism through a case study of Lao Wiang Sin weaving in Ban Noen Kharm, Chainat Province. Data were collected from academic publications, research reports, and related documents, and analyzed using content analysis. The findings reveal that six dimensions of community capital were identified, namely human capital, social capital, physical capital, natural capital, financial capital, and cultural capital. These forms of capital function interconnectedly and mutually reinforce one another in supporting the transmission of Lao Wiang weaving wisdom, the organization of cultural learning activities, and the development of community-based cultural tourism. The study further indicates that a key factor enabling community capital to be leveraged into cultural tourism resources is the community’s knowledge management process, which facilitates the collection, transmission, and adaptation of local wisdom. This process has led to the establishment of the Ban Noen Kharm Lao Wiang Traditional Textile Learning Center, as well as the development of cultural products, learning activities, and cultural tourism routes that reflect the community’s unique identity. Additionally, the results show that Lao Wiang Sin weaving wisdom serves as a core cultural capital that links other cultural resources within the community to cultural tourism development. Consequently, cultural tourism generates economic, social, and cultural value while enhancing community strength and long-term sustainability.