Cultural Identity and Community Participation in Cultural Management for Promoting Cultural Tourism in Uthai Thani Province

Abstract

This study aimed to: 1) analyze the cultural identity of traditions regarding their distinctiveness, continuity, self-esteem, and self-efficacy in cultural management to promote cultural tourism in Uthai Thani Province; and 2) examine community participation and stakeholder involvement in planning, organizing, directing, and controlling cultural management to promote cultural tourism in Uthai Thani province. This was a qualitative research, and data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 40 purposively selected key informants from the public, private, and community sectors, complemented by focus group discussions. Research instruments were validated by three subject-matter experts. Data analysis utilized content analysis with triangulation methods to ensure reliability. Findings regarding cultural identity revealed that Uthai Thani's traditions are distinctive for their preservation of indigenous customs, their simplicity, their tranquility, and the Tak Bat Tevo almsgiving tradition. Continuity emerges through intergenerational transmission and the application of modern technology in dissemination. Expressions of self-esteem and self-efficacy are reflected through multisectoral cooperation in conservation and development. Regarding stakeholder participation, results indicated integrated collaboration among all sectors across all stages—from planning and management to leadership and control—although their roles and perspectives differ. The public sector acts as a coordinator, ensuring coherence with governmental policies; the private sector focuses on tourism-oriented activities and operational efficiency; and local communities and leaders prioritize grassroots implementation, community mobilization, and resource management for the benefit of the locality. The research demonstrates that sustainable tradition management requires integrated participation of all stakeholders at every level to preserve cultural heritage.