The Use of Saraniyadhamma Principles to Develop the Duty Perfomance by the Members of the House of Representatives

Abstract

This research aimed to 1. study the principles of Saraniyadhamma (virtues conducive to communal harmony) in relation to the performance of duties by Members of Parliament; 2. analyze the application of Saraniyadhamma principles in the duties of Members of Parliament; and 3. propose guidelines for utilizing Saraniyadhamma principles to enhance the performance of Members of Parliament’s duties. The project was a qualitative research study that employed document analysis of existing research and in-depth interviews with 30 key informants, along with focused group discussions involving 12 selected participants. The research used content analysis techniques concerning context, and data validation was conducted using triangulation techniques. The findings were presented descriptively. Research findings were as follows: 1. Members of Parliament have applied Saraniyadhamma principles in their performance of duties in commendable ways. Some Members of Parliament demonstrated generosity, compassion, respect for elders, sharing, and mutual support, leading to orderly and fair conduct; 2. The performance of Members of Parliament aligned with Saraniyadhamma principles, encompassing political ethics and Buddhist teachings. Many Members of Parliament showed respect, obedience, moral commitment, kindness, willingness to listen, and unified decision-making; and 3. The integration of Saraniyadhamma into the duties outlined in the constitution was crucial. The primary expressions of this integration included courteous speech, humility, generosity, and mutual respect.