The Development of the Chao Ley (Sea Gypsies) Cultural Heritage Center at Ban Laem Tukkae

Abstract

The Ban Tukkay Community is located in Rasada Sub-district, Muang District, Phuket province.The inhabitants of the community were the biggest group of sea gypsies who earned their living by fishing. Their own way of living and traditions had been practiced until the present days. The research aimed to: 1) collect the information about the sea gypsies and their culture from various sources; 2) seek for a model to establish the Cultural Heritage Center; 3) manage the knowledge obtained in order to establish the data system; 4) conclude the body of knowledge by using participatory technique from all involved sectors. The sample groups consisted of community leaders, committee members of Moo 4  Ban Laem Tukkae, business operators, representatives from Rasada Municipality, and other involved people from private sectors. The research employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The researchers conducted the study in 2005 and 2006. The data was collected by the following methods: study trips at the Siam Museum and Nitat Ratanakosin; survey; focus group discussions; interviews,in-depth interviews, public hearings; and qualitative analysis.The results revealed that there was a consensus from all parts involved that the new Chao Ley Cultural Heritage Center must be built to replace the old one. There should be 9 exhibitions in the Center: 1) General information of Laem Tukkae, the Land of Sea Gypsies; 2) Famous Historical figures; 3) The Ancestors of the Sea Gypsies Urak Lavoy; 4) Way of Life of the Sea Gypsies; 5) Ron–Ngeng, the Aesthetics Local wisdom of the Sea Gypsies; 6) Loy Rua, the Floating of Bad Luck Ceremony; 7) Occupations; 8) The Royal Visit of H.R.H. Princess Mother of the present King; 9) The Death Ceremony.