THE ECO – CULTURAL DRIVEN TO THE KOHYAI COMMUNITY KRASAESIN DISTRICT, SONGKHLA PROVINCE BASED DEVELOPMENT RELATED WITH THE BUDDHIST TEACHINGS INTEGRATIVE APPROACH

Abstract

This study aimed to 1) examine the eco-cultural conditions and challenges of Kohyai community, Krasaesin District, Songkhla Province; 2) analyze Buddhist teachings that can be integrated into eco-cultural development; and 3) drive eco-cultural sustainability based on community development through Buddhist principles. A qualitative research design was employed, using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with purposively selected participants, including community leaders, local residents, religious experts, local administrative organizations, and government agencies, totaling 60 individuals by analyzing the data using the inductive content analysis method.

          The findings revealed that:

1. Kohyai community demonstrates cultural and traditional diversity harmoniously integrated with simple lifestyles, beliefs, values, customs, cooperation, sacrifice, and natural conservation, which are essential for eco-cultural sustainability.


2. The integration of Buddhist teachings fosters discipline and awareness, strengthens the relationship between humans and nature through inherited beliefs and rituals, and encourages collective responsibility for environmental balance. The application of sīla (morality) and trisikha (threefold training) serves as key instruments in regulating behavior, cultivating wisdom, and instilling shared responsibility.


3. Eco-cultural development in Kohyai community is not limited to natural resource conservation but involves the integration of lifestyle, beliefs, local wisdom, and Buddhist principles. Community values and traditions guide behavior, while environmental consciousness and participatory decision-making generate tangible outcomes in social, economic, and environmental dimensions. This balance reflects sustainable coexistence and sufficiency, forming a foundation for preserving cultural identity and ecological stability of the Kohyai community.